Binghamton Woman Charged After Child Struck by SUV
Authorities charged an 83-year-old local woman with a felony following a hit-and-run incident involving a 4-year-old.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Accidents
Police have charged 83-year-old Mary J. Kostyshak with a felony for leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury. The charges follow an incident where a 4-year-old child was struck by an SUV on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Why it matters
Law enforcement utilized automated license plate recognition technology to identify the suspect vehicle, leading them to a residence on Progy Road. The young victim is currently receiving medical care in stable condition at Upstate University Hospital.
Mary J. Kostyshak faces a felony charge for leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury. The investigation remains active as authorities process evidence regarding the incident involving the 4-year-old victim.
The players
Mary J. Kostyshak
She is the 83-year-old resident of Binghamton who was charged with a felony for leaving the scene of an accident.
Binghamton Police
This is the local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the accident and locating the suspect vehicle.
The details
After the incident on Pennsylvania Avenue, the victim was initially taken to Wilson Medical Center before being transferred to Upstate University Hospital. Investigators successfully tracked the SUV to a home on Progy Road using automated license plate recognition software.
Timeline
The accident occurred on Pennsylvania Avenue at 4:45 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026.
Mary J. Kostyshak was charged with a felony on Monday, October 12, 2026.
Authorities announced that an arrest had been made on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard prosecution protocols under New York State law for incidents involving motorists who leave the scene of a crash. Such investigations have become increasingly aided by automated license plate recognition technology in local jurisdictions.
Residents should remain aware of increased police presence as the investigation into the Pennsylvania Avenue accident continues. Any information regarding the incident can be directed to the Binghamton police detective bureau at (607) 772-7080.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the role of modern surveillance technology in resolving hit-and-run investigations. Local police remind drivers that remaining at the scene of an accident involving personal injury is a critical legal and safety requirement.
Further reading
For more information on road safety and local updates, visit Binghamton Accidents.
