72-Year-Old Arrested in Hit-and-Run Death of Former Nickelodeon Star Kianna Underwood

Michael Griffiths, 72, was arrested on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in connection with the fatal hit-and-run that killed former Nickelodeon actress Kianna Underwood, 33, in Brooklyn on January 16, 2026. According to police, Griffiths was driving a 2021 black Ford Explorer westbound on Pitkin Avenue when he veered over the double yellow line to pass a vehicle making a right turn onto Mother Gaston Boulevard. His SUV struck Underwood, who was in the crosswalk but crossing against the pedestrian signal, near Watkins Street. After the initial impact, Underwood was struck and dragged for more than two blocks by a second black-and-gray sedan; neither driver remained at the scene. Underwood was pronounced dead at the intersection of Osborn Street and Pitkin Avenue.

Griffiths has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and leaving the scene of an accident with injury. In an interview with the New York Daily News days after the crash, Griffiths stated he felt he had hit "something" and pulled over, claiming he got out of his vehicle and joined bystanders attempting to flag down the second vehicle. He said he left the scene to take medication, telling the publication: "I did nothing wrong." Police reported that Griffiths refused to answer their questions when contacted, instructing them to speak with his lawyer. His vehicle had previously been ticketed for 41 violations, including 25 for speeding.

Underwood had a recurring role on the Nickelodeon sketch comedy show "All That," appearing in seven episodes during its final season in 2005, alongside Amanda Bynes and Kenan Thompson. She also voiced the character Fuchsia Glover on the animated series "Little Bill" and had roles in theatrical productions and other television projects. In November 2023, fellow "All That" cast member Angelique Bates posted on Instagram that Underwood was homeless and in need of assistance, drawing attention to her difficult circumstances in the years before her death. According to police and local accounts, Underwood had struggled with homelessness and substance abuse.