Daniel Sails: Man charged with reckless driving months after he lost control of car in collision that killed Ava Conklin
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
QUEENS, UNITED STATES: A Queens resident has been arrested and charged with reckless driving in connection with the tragic death of teenager Ava Conklin last June.
Police reports indicate that Daniel Sails, aged 30, hailing from The Rockaways, allegedly fell asleep at the wheel of his 2021 Hyundai, resulting in a collision that claimed the life of 19-year-old Conklin.
The unfortunate incident occurred as Conklin was waiting for a bus in The Rockaways after completing his work shift.
Further details emerged during the investigation, shedding light on Conklin's character and the speed at which the drowsy driver operated the vehicle as per W42ST.
What happened to teen girl Ava Conklin?
After the tragic incident, Sails was initially apprehended at the 100th Precinct and later released. However, he is now facing formal charges.
According to police reports, on Saturday, June 24, 2023, Concklin was waiting in front of a Walgreens on Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 108th Street in Queens after finishing her shift at the Rockaway Hotel.
A driver lost control of their vehicle, jumped the curb, and collided with three metal benches, striking the teenager.
Notably, Conklin, a college student on a break, had planned to meet her 14-year-old sister Peyton and was en route to Central Park when the tragic incident occurred.
She was swiftly transported to Brookdale Hospital in Brownsville with severe bodily trauma but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Ava Conklin is remembered as 'radiant spirit'
Following Ava Conklin's passing, a multitude of mourners gathered at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Church on W51st Street to pay their respects at her funeral.
A resident of Hell’s Kitchen, Ava was the beloved daughter of Chrissy Collins and Matt Conklin.
Her obituary fondly recalled her as a "radiant spirit and her kind nature touched the lives of all who knew her. Her capacity to love knew no bounds, as she had a heart filled with affection for everyone and everything around her"
The obituary further noted, "he had a vibrant sense of adventure and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures," concluding with, “Above all, Ava treasured her friends and family, prioritizing quality time with them. She had an uncanny ability to create lasting memories and foster deep connections.”
Expressing her grief, Ava's mother, Chrissy, shared on Instagram: “My heart is broken into a million pieces. My baby girl is gone. This world did not deserve such a sweet soul. May you dance with the angels and sing with the doves.”
