Fashion photographer e-bike rider 'doored' by driver in Queens dies 3 weeks later

Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News on Oct 29, 2025

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NEW YORK — A fashion photographer died after being “doored” by a Nissan Maxima as he rode an e-bike in Queens, police said Wednesday.

Jose Luis Mora died Oct. 11, nearly three weeks after the crash in South Richmond Hill, cops said.

Mora, 56, was riding west on 103rd Avenue when a 30-year-old man behind the wheel of a 2011 Nissan Maxima parked near 117th Street threw open the driver’s-side door about 4:20 p.m. on Sept. 21.

The victim slammed into the door, was thrown from his e-bike and landed on the asphalt, cops said. He was rushed to Jamaica Hospital, where he died 20 days later.

The driver has not been charged.

Mora, a Brooklyn native, lived in Ozone Park and had two children and three grandchildren. His funeral service was held in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday.

“For over 20 years, Jose dedicated his life to the fashion industry, where he made his mark as a talented photographer known for his creativity and skill,” his obituary says. “He was always found behind the camera, capturing the beauty of his subjects with passion and precision. His commitment to his work was evident, often keeping him at his desk late into the night.”

Mora’s cellphone was “ever-busy with calls and texts,” his obituary says.

“(It) was a testament to the deep relationships he built with his clients, many of whom considered him more than just a business partner but a dear friend,” the obit reads. “Jose’s vibrant personality was complemented by his good sense of humor, competitive spirit, and a unique ability to embrace positivity, even in the face of challenges. He was never afraid to speak his mind, and his calm demeanor made him an anchor for those around him.”

“A true New Yorker at heart, he had a profound love for ‘his city,’ which provided him with endless inspiration,” the obit continued.

Word of Mora’s death comes two days after a 26-year-old bicyclist died after also being doored in Queens.

Cristian Villafuerte Vasquez was pedaling north on 108th Street near 38th Avenue in Corona around 6:40 p.m. Monday when the owner of a BMW 320i opened his driver’s-side door as he exited his vehicle, cops said.

Vasquez suffered a severe head injury when he hit the pavement and was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital, where he died a short time later.

No criminal charges were immediately filed against the driver, police said.

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