Man Charged In Hit-And-Run Death Of Binghamton University Student
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A man has been arrested in connection with the hit-and-run death of a Binghamton University student from Queens, officials announced Thursday.
Police said Stefani Lineva, 20, of Middle Village, was struck by a car Saturday morning on Vestal Parkway near Binghamton University.
Authorities said she was found lying on the eastbound lane around 2 a.m. Saturday, and was pronounced dead at the hospital. Police said she had suffered severe injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle.
Aizaz A. Siddiqui, 26, of Binghamton, is charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury accident resulting in death. He will be arraigned Thursday.
"Our police department, and specifically the Detective Bureau, tirelessly followed leads and put on a full-court press in working this case," said Binghamton Mayor Richard David. "In addition, this community should be commended for its support and attention in ensuring justice is done."
"I'm proud of the work done by our entire investigative team in working a tragic and complex case," said Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski. "These types of investigations require many man-hours, day and night, and the cooperation of the public to provide information.
In a statement released Sunday, Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger praised the student's "spirit, passion and engagement" with everyone she met on campus.
Lineva was a member of the college's tennis team who was in her first semester at the college after transferring from Adelphi University on Long Island.
Bob Ingersole, her former tennis coach at The West Side Tennis Club, describes Stefani as "very focused and dedicated."
"She lived life to the fullest," said her mother. "I will remember her smile, we will celebrate her life."
A memorial for Stefani will be held at the West Side Tennis Club on Friday.
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