Services set for crossing guard killed in alleged drugged-driving crash in Merrick

Funeral arrangements have been announced for John Miro, the Nassau County crossing guard and retired tugboat operator who died after being struck by a pickup truck in Merrick last month in what authorities have called a drug-impaired driving case.

Miro, 70, of Massapequa, died Friday, eight days after the Feb. 26 crash at the intersection of Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue. The crossing guard had just helped students get across Sunrise Highway and was returning to the sidewalk when a white Ford pickup truck jumped the curb and struck him, police said.

The driver, Joshua Alvarado, 30, of Rosedale, Queens, has pleaded not guilty to second-degree assault, vehicular assault and driving while ability impaired by drugs. Prosecutors said Alvarado fell asleep in a turn lane before the crash and, upon being awakened by honking drivers, drove onto the sidewalk where Miro was walking.

Authorities said Alvarado later acknowledged having taken Xanax, Tramadol and Clonazepam.

A colleague who helped train Miro when he first became a crossing guard, Marie Sandy Schoen, wrote: “Your gentle kindness came through right away. You will be truly missed by all that knew you.”

CSEA Local 830, the union representing Nassau County crossing guards and other county employees, announced the arrangements on Monday, calling on members and the community to pay their respects.

“John served with quiet courage and dedication, stepping into the roadway each day to keep our children safe,” the union wrote. “His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”