Kianna Underwood, who rose to fame on Nickelodeon’s “All That,” died Friday after being struck by two vehicles in Brooklyn. Both drivers fled and remain at large.
At a Glance
- Underwood, 33, was hit by an SUV and then a sedan while crossing a Brownsville intersection
- Both drivers sped away; no arrests have been made
- She voiced Fuschia on “Little Bill” and later toured with “Hairspray”
- Why it matters: A beloved child star’s death highlights ongoing dangers of NYC hit-and-runs
The New York Police Department says the incident happened shortly after 9 a.m. at the intersection of Pitkin Avenue and Barbey Street. Underwood was crossing when a black Ford Explorer SUV struck her. While she lay in the roadway, a black-and-gray sedan ran over her a second time. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene.
A Career Launched on Nickelodeon
Underwood’s television debut came in 1999 as the voice of Fuschia Glover on the animated series “Little Bill.” She appeared in more than two dozen episodes during the show’s five-year run.
In 2005 she joined the cast of “All That,” Nickelodeon’s long-running sketch-comedy staple. She performed in seven episodes, showcasing characters that quickly endeared her to the network’s young audience.
After her time on “All That,” Underwood transitioned to stage work, spending a year on the first national tour of the Tony-winning musical “Hairspray.” She played Little Inez, a role that let her sing and dance across the country.
The Hit-and-Run
Surveillance footage reviewed by detectives shows the Ford Explorer traveling west on Pitkin Avenue. After the initial collision, the driver accelerated and disappeared. Moments later the sedan, also heading west, struck Underwood again and continued without stopping.
Police have released still images of both vehicles and are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers. Investigators have not disclosed speed estimates or whether either driver braked before impact.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives from the NYPD’s Highway Collision Investigation Squad have canvassed nearby businesses for additional video. They are also seeking witnesses who may have seen the drivers’ faces or captured license-plate numbers.
No weapons were recovered, and police say there is no indication Underwood knew either driver. Toxicology results for Underwood are pending; officers did not say whether the drivers are suspected of impairment.
Tributes Pour In
Former castmates shared memories on social media within hours of the news. Posts described Underwood as “a bright light” and “the kid who could make anyone laugh.”
“All That” helped launch the careers of Nick Cannon, Kenan Thompson and Amanda Bynes. Fans have begun circulating vintage clips of Underwood’s sketches, using the hashtag #RIPKianna.
A Pattern of Deadly Hit-and-Runs
Underwood’s death marks the third pedestrian fatality from a hit-and-run in the 73rd Precinct this year, according to NYPD data through mid-May. Citywide, police have recorded 47 pedestrian deaths in 2024, a 12 percent increase over the same period in 2023.
Brooklyn Community Board 16, which includes Brownsville, has requested additional speed cameras and pedestrian islands along Pitkin Avenue. Transportation advocates plan a vigil at the intersection Friday evening.
Legal Consequences
Leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death is a Class D felony in New York, punishable by up to seven years in prison. If a driver is found to have been intoxicated, charges can escalate to manslaughter.
Police say charges will depend on evidence gathered from surveillance, vehicle forensics and witness statements. They reiterated that both drivers remain unidentified and urged them to turn themselves in.
Remembering Her Legacy
Underwood’s last credited screen role was her 2005 run on “All That.” Friends say she had recently discussed returning to acting and was taking classes in Manhattan.
She is survived by her mother, two sisters and a brother. Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
Key Takeaways
- Kianna Underwood, known for “Little Bill” and “All That,” was killed in a double hit-and-run at age 33
- Both vehicles-a black Ford Explorer and a black-and-gray sedan-fled; detectives are seeking tips
- The tragedy underscores rising pedestrian deaths and the ongoing search for the drivers
Anyone with information is asked to call NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
