A Queens actress who appeared in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” died after being hit by a car while crossing a Manhattan street earlier this week.

According to the New York Post, Wenne Alton Davis, 60, was struck by a Cadillac making a left turn on Broadway near West 53rd Street just before 9 p.m. Monday. Davis, whose real name was Wendy Davis, suffered serious injuries and was taken to Mount Sinai West Hospital, where she later died.

The driver, identified as a 61-year-old man, remained at the scene following the collision and did not face any immediate charges. Police said their investigation remains ongoing.

Actress remembered for TV role and charisma

Davis was best known for a small but memorable appearance as a police officer on the hit Amazon Prime series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Her IMDb page lists additional roles in the 2011 drama “Shame,” which starred Michael Fassbender, and the 2004 short film “Ladies Room.” Neighbors and friends described her as kindhearted and full of life.

One neighbor, Edward Reynoso, 61, who lived near Davis in Forest Hills, Queens, said they spoke just hours before the fatal accident. Reynoso recalled that her last words to him felt strangely final. “I love you, I appreciate you,” Davis told him, according to Reynoso. “It was so weird to me, because I felt like she was saying goodbye.”

Davis, who often went by her stage name Wenne Alton Davis, had been part of New York City’s creative community for several decades, appearing in independent films, local theater, and TV productions. Her death shocked those who knew her both personally and professionally.

Crash details under police review

Authorities said Davis was crossing Broadway at the intersection of West 53rd Street when the 2023 Cadillac XT6 turned left and struck her in the crosswalk. The area, located in Midtown Manhattan, is heavily trafficked by both vehicles and pedestrians.

Police confirmed that the driver remained cooperative at the scene and did not appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident. Investigators reviewed surveillance videos from nearby buildings to determine whether Davis had the right of way when she was hit.

While no charges have been filed, the New York Police Department’s Collision Investigation Squad continues to assess the circumstances around the crash, which is standard procedure in fatal pedestrian accidents.

Neighborhood mourns a familiar presence

Residents in Forest Hills expressed sorrow over the sudden loss of Davis, who was regarded as a friendly and familiar face in the community. Neighbors said she often stopped to talk with people in her building and took part in local acting and film events when possible.

Reynoso, who described their last encounter as heartfelt, said learning of Davis’s death left him shaken. “Now that this happened, it all seems so odd to me,” he said, emphasizing how their brief exchange now carried haunting significance.

Friends said Davis had a natural kindness that endeared her to everyone around her. Some described her as someone who never let setbacks in her acting career dampen her enthusiasm for life or creativity.

Lessons to Learn

1. Always proceed cautiously at intersections. Whether driving or walking, be vigilant about traffic signals and vehicle movement. Many pedestrian-related collisions occur during quick turns or when the driver’s line of sight is obstructed.

2. Exercise heightened awareness in high-traffic areas. Midtown Manhattan is a prime example of a neighborhood where vehicles and pedestrians constantly interact. Even if you have the right of way, it’s critical to double-check for turning vehicles or unexpected road behavior.

3. Empathy and safety are shared responsibilities. Drivers and pedestrians alike can benefit from respecting shared spaces. While nothing can fully prevent every tragedy, conscious efforts from all road users contribute to safer streets. Still, crime and accidents can happen to anybody, and victims are never at fault for the actions of others.

Why This Story Matters

This story shines a light on the persistent dangers pedestrians face in New York City. It underscores how even well-traveled streets and common routines can result in unexpected tragedy. By examining the life lost and the conditions of her death, we honor Wenne Alton Davis and raise awareness around critical issues of road safety.

Conclusion

Wendy Davis, known onscreen as Wenne Alton Davis, tragically lost her life Monday night after being struck by a turning vehicle in Midtown Manhattan. She had built a solid career with credits in film and television, including a publicized appearance on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Her final hours included an emotional goodbye to a neighbor that now resonates with new significance. The driver remained at the scene and, as of Wednesday, faced no charges, while authorities continue to investigate the details of the crash. Davis's death marks not only a personal tragedy but also a broader reminder of the city’s ongoing pedestrian safety challenges.