A tragic accident in Greenwich Village has left a community in mourning after 27-year-old Valerie Schoeck was killed by a wrong-way driver. Schoeck, a Massachusetts native who had recently moved to the West Village, was crossing Morton Street near Seventh Avenue South on the morning of November 17 when a black van traveling in the wrong direction struck her.
Schoeck, originally from Cambridge, Massachusetts, was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, but despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead. Those close to her described her as a kind and thoughtful woman who had been eagerly preparing for her wedding next summer.
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A Promising Future Cut Short
Schoeck’s family shared that she was excitedly planning her wedding to her fiancé, Ross Barlow, for the summer of 2025. A family member, Carol, who identified herself as the aunt of Barlow, said Valerie had been full of life and looking forward to the future. Ross Barlow, devastated by the loss, has declined to comment publicly.
Driver Remains at the Scene, Investigation Ongoing
The driver of the van, a 61-year-old man from New Jersey, was traveling westbound on Morton Street, which is designated for eastbound traffic only, when the crash occurred. He remained at the scene after the accident, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. No charges had been filed by Friday, and further details on the investigation have not yet been released.
Family Launches Tribute Fund in Honor of Valerie
In remembrance of Valerie, her family has requested donations be made to Our House, a nonprofit organization offering grief support services. The cause is close to the family’s heart, as Valerie’s father, Michael C. Schoeck, passed away in 2004 after a battle with leukemia. Valerie’s early experiences with loss shaped her deep empathy and understanding of grief. The family hopes that contributions in her memory will help those coping with loss.
A Community in Grief
Valerie’s death has left her friends, family, and neighbors heartbroken. Remembered as a loving, compassionate individual, her life was filled with promise. Those who knew her have expressed deep sorrow at the loss of a bright young woman whose future, full of love and excitement, was tragically cut short.
The investigation into the fatal accident remains active, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and assess the circumstances surrounding the crash. As of now, there have been no updates regarding potential charges.