Lisa Banes, an actress known for more than 80 film and television roles, died in June 2021 after being struck by an electric scooter in New York. The rider, Brian Boyd, was later arrested and sentenced to up to three years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter.
Career and fatal accident
Banes, 65, had an extensive career on stage and screen, appearing in projects including Gone Girl, Murder She Wrote, Cocktail and Desperate Housewives. On 4 June 2021, she was visiting friends in New York when she was hit while crossing a marked pedestrian crossing on Amsterdam Avenue, near the Juilliard School.
The scooter rider had sped through a red light before colliding with Banes and fleeing the scene in what was described as a hit-and-run. Banes was rushed to hospital suffering a traumatic brain injury and died there 10 days later, on 14 June.
Investigation and arrest
The perpetrator had travelled four miles to a shop in Upper Manhattan, where he had his vehicle repaired but made no effort to stop and check on his victim. Officers arrested Brian Boyd, 26, on 5 August 2021 at his flat in the same neighbourhood where the incident occurred.
He was remanded on bail of $30,000 cash or $100,000 bond, facing charges of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and failure to yield to a pedestrian. Boyd pleaded guilty to manslaughter and, on 30 November 2022, was sentenced to up to three years behind bars.
Tributes and condolences
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said in a statement: "Brian Boyd drove recklessly with no regard for pedestrians, fatally striking a beloved actress and New Yorker before speeding off to avoid accountability.
"Lisa Banes will be remembered for her contributions to the rich fabric of New York City through her roles on screen and on Broadway. I offer her friends, family, and the many who loved her during her decades-long career my deepest condolences."
Following news of her passing, fellow cast members and close friends paid tribute on social media. Comedian Seth MacFarlane wrote: "I am deeply saddened at the news of Lisa Banes's passing. We had the good fortune to work with her on The Orville this past year."
"Her stage presence, magnetism, skill and talent were matched only by her unwavering kindness and graciousness toward all of us. A tremendous loss..."
Actor Dana Delany posted: "Terribly sad news about Lisa Banes. She was a consummate actor who commanded the stage. We worked together on China Beach, and I wish there had been more. My heart goes out to her wife and family."
