Cohoes New York Community Grieves After 93-Year-Old Charles Allendorph Struck in Tragic Hit-and-Run

COHOES, N.Y. — A routine Monday morning in Cohoes turned devastating when a vehicle struck 93-year-old Charles Allendorph in the area of Newark Street and Congress Street, leaving him critically injured. Authorities say the incident occurred around 9:44 a.m. on August 18, 2025, and the driver involved fled the scene immediately after impact.

Emergency personnel responded within minutes after receiving calls from witnesses who saw the pedestrian lying on the roadway. Paramedics rushed Allendorph to a nearby hospital, where he was listed in critical condition. Police officials confirmed that the vehicle responsible did not remain at the scene, prompting an urgent search for the driver.

The Cohoes Police Department has since launched a full investigation, canvassing the area for surveillance footage and speaking to residents who may have seen the vehicle before or after the collision. Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward, stressing that community assistance will be vital in identifying the individual responsible.

Neighbors in the area described Allendorph as an active and well-loved member of the community, despite his age. They expressed shock and sorrow, noting that he often walked the streets near his home and was widely recognized for his friendly interactions. His sudden injury has left many struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could happen in broad daylight.

Authorities have increased patrols in the neighborhood while investigators focus on piecing together the sequence of events. Traffic safety advocates in Cohoes have also raised concerns, emphasizing that pedestrian safety has long been a challenge in certain intersections across the city. They are calling for enhanced crosswalk visibility, speed enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to prevent further tragedies.

Family members of Allendorph, though devastated, have spoken with gratitude for the rapid response of emergency personnel and the ongoing support from neighbors. They described him as a man of resilience, community spirit, and compassion. For them, the days since the accident have been filled with uncertainty, as they await updates on his recovery.

City leaders have also weighed in, with officials pledging full cooperation in bringing the responsible driver to justice. They underscored the seriousness of leaving the scene of such an accident and reassured residents that every resource available is being directed toward solving the case.

As the investigation continues, many in Cohoes are rallying behind Allendorph’s family, offering meals, prayers, and words of encouragement. Community groups are also planning vigils to show solidarity and raise awareness of pedestrian safety.

The Cohoes Police Department continues to appeal to anyone with dashcam footage, surveillance recordings, or firsthand knowledge of the incident to contact their office or Capital Region Crime Stoppers. Investigators emphasize that even the smallest detail may help locate the driver involved.

For residents of Cohoes, the accident has left a lasting impact, reinforcing the urgent need for accountability and stronger protections for vulnerable pedestrians. As Allendorph fights for his recovery, the community remains united in hope, prayer, and determination to ensure justice is served.