Newark, NJ — The Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Marilyn Belkis Reyes Borjas After Scooter Accident
The city of Newark is mourning the heartbreaking and untimely loss of Marilyn Belkis Reyes Borjas, a 35-year-old woman whose vibrant life was tragically cut short following a devastating electric scooter accident on Wednesday, June 26, 2025. The incident occurred as Marilyn was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk, riding her electric scooter, when she was fatally struck by a vehicle. Despite the swift arrival of emergency medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a grieving family, countless friends, and a community in shock.
The accident took place during the early evening hours near the intersection of Broad Street and Raymond Boulevard, a bustling area in downtown Newark. Witnesses say Marilyn was navigating the crosswalk with caution when a speeding vehicle failed to yield and struck her, throwing her several feet onto the pavement. Authorities responded immediately, and the driver remained at the scene. An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances leading up to the crash and whether any charges will be filed.
Marilyn’s passing has sent ripples of grief throughout Newark and beyond. Known for her radiant personality, boundless energy, and compassionate heart, she touched the lives of many. Born in Honduras, Marilyn immigrated to the United States in her youth, determined to build a life filled with purpose and opportunity. A proud resident of Newark for over a decade, she was an advocate for immigrant rights and a devoted member of her local church community.
Marilyn worked as a paraprofessional in the Newark Public School System, where she dedicated her days to helping children with special needs. Colleagues describe her as patient, uplifting, and deeply committed to her students’ success and well-being. She was also known for her involvement in community outreach efforts, volunteering regularly at food drives and local wellness clinics.
“She was the kind of person who brought warmth into every room she entered,” said her longtime friend, Leticia Gomez. “Marilyn didn’t just talk about love and service—she lived it. She gave her time freely and always looked out for others.”
Marilyn leaves behind a loving family, including her mother Isabel Borjas, two younger siblings, and her beloved 10-year-old son, Ezekiel, who now faces a future without the unwavering support of his mother. Friends and loved ones have set up a GoFundMe campaign to help support Ezekiel’s education and living expenses, and to assist with funeral costs. The fundraiser has already garnered an outpouring of support, a testament to the many lives Marilyn touched.
As the investigation into the accident continues, the incident has also sparked renewed conversation about traffic safety and the increasing dangers faced by pedestrians and scooter users in urban areas. Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, more visible crosswalks, and greater accountability for reckless driving.
In the meantime, the Newark community is preparing to celebrate Marilyn’s life with a public candlelight vigil scheduled for Saturday, June 29, at Lincoln Park, where friends, neighbors, students, and loved ones will gather to honor her memory and share stories of her kindness and legacy. A funeral service will be held the following week, with details to be announced.
Marilyn Belkis Reyes Borjas will be remembered not only for the tragic circumstances of her passing, but for the love, joy, and light she brought into the world. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in the lives she changed, the children she helped, and the community she so selflessly served.