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Arrest Made in Hit-and-Run Crash that Killed Nickelodeon Star
Michael Griffiths was released without bail after pleading not guilty, and prosecutors said the SUV he drove had 41 prior violations.
On Tuesday, 72-year-old Michael Griffiths was indicted in connection to the death of Kianna Underwood, a former Nickelodeon actress killed in a hit-and-run on January 16, 2026 in Brownsville, Brooklyn.
According to police, Griffiths' black Ford Explorer veered over the double yellow line on Pitkin Avenue while maneuvering around a turning vehicle at Mother Gaston Boulevard, striking Underwood in the crosswalk.
After being struck by Griffiths, Underwood was run over and dragged for more than two blocks by a black-and-gray sedan. Griffiths claimed he left only because he 'had to take my medication' and felt faint.
Before her death, Underwood, 33, had a recurring role in Nickelodeon's 'All That' and voiced Fuchsia Glover in 'Little Bill' from 1999 to 2004. Former co-star Angelique Bates told CBS News New York Underwood 'would have loved to know that that love was reciprocated.'
Griffiths pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in Brooklyn criminal court Tuesday and was released without bail, scheduled to return October 27. Police say it took days to locate him and he refused to answer questions.