Jamel Smalls, 43, Killed in Hit-and-Run in Binghamton; Driver Faces Multiple Charges

Binghamton, NY – A tragic car-pedestrian crash just north of the City of Binghamton on Monday night has left one man dead and the driver facing multiple charges. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident, which occurred around 9:30 p.m. near the intersection of Front and Bevier Streets in the Town of Dickinson. The victim has been identified as 43-year-old Jamel Smalls of Binghamton.

According to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a man lying on the side of the road near the intersection. Upon arrival, they found Smalls with significant injuries, and despite lifesaving efforts by deputies and a Broome County security officer, Smalls was pronounced dead at the scene. Initial investigations revealed that Smalls had been struck by a vehicle, which fled, leaving behind debris from the collision.

Further investigation led detectives to the Town of Maine, where they identified the suspect vehicle and its driver, 21-year-old Christian A. Rogler of Endicott. The investigation determined that Rogler was traveling south on Upper Front Street at the intersection with Bevier Street when he struck Smalls in the crosswalk. Rogler then fled the scene without stopping to check on Smalls, despite his vehicle sustaining significant damage and knowing he had hit a pedestrian.

Authorities also allege that Rogler was impaired by drugs at the time of the crash and was found in possession of methamphetamine when he was detained. As a result, Rogler has been charged with second-degree vehicular manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, both felony charges. He also faces misdemeanor charges of driving while impaired by drugs and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Rogler was arraigned in Central Arraignment Part Court and has been committed to the Broome County Correctional Facility. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Broome County Government Security Division, Broome Volunteer Ambulance, and the New York State Department of Transportation, continues to investigate the case.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar expressed condolences to the family of Jamel Smalls, stating, “Amidst this senseless tragedy, I pray that Smalls’ family might take some solace in the efforts of our team of investigators to swiftly bring the fleeing perpetrator of this crime to justice.” The community is left mourning the loss of Smalls, and local authorities are determined to see justice served for his untimely death.

As the investigation progresses, the sheriff’s office urges anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by impaired driving and the importance of stopping to render aid in the event of an accident. The Broome County community remains in shock, but officials are committed to upholding the law and supporting Smalls’ family during this difficult time.