NYC- A beloved Brooklyn man walking home after giving out Christmas gifts was mowed down by a hit-and-run driver and died just steps from his home in the first minute of Christmas, cops and relatives said.
Nevilly Mills, 70, was crossing Rockaway Parkway at Avenue B in Brownsville at 12:01 a.m. yesterday when a silver Nissan Murano struck him twice and sped away, police said.
"He didn't suffer," said Neomia Mills, 71, his wife for 47 years. "God knew what He was doing and I have no control over that."
The victim's sister Joysilin Mills, 67, said her brother was returning from her nearby home after giving holiday presents - a toy truck and a dancing doll for the children and a Christmas card and some cash for her.
"He hugged me and said, 'I love you,'" before leaving, she recalled.
Minutes later, Mills was hit crossing the busy thoroughfare and dragged some 100 feet.
"The doctor said [the driver] reversed back at him," said Joysilin Mills, standing by a bouquet of white flowers that was laid on the asphalt near the intersection.
"The police tell me some kids saw it and ran," she added.
Mills was rushed to Brookdale University Hospital, located only a block away, but doctors could not save him.
Neighbors and family members filled the Mills residence on Rockaway Parkway, offering condolences and remembering the popular retiree who lived in that house for the past 30 years.
"Everybody knew him," said his grieving wife. "He was always in good spirits."
Mills emigrated from Jamaica at age 17 and earned a living as a dockworker in New Jersey for many years. He had one son and two grandchildren.
Neighbors recalled a man who would often volunteer to do household repairs for nearby residents and used to offer treats for area youngsters.
"Anything you ask Mr. Mills to do, he'll do willingly," said neighbor Elsa George. "When an ice cream truck comes, he'll buy ice cream for all the kids."
Police have made no arrests and were still looking for the Nissan that was last seen heading west on Ditmas Ave.
Relatives were furious at the heartless motorist who never stopped after the crash.
"He's wicked," said Mills' sister. "He's got a bad nature, a bad temper."
"I hope they'll catch him," added his wife. "That's all I can say."
