The Water Mill, New York, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Stefani Rock, a 28-year-old New York City resident who died after being struck by a vehicle while jogging Friday morning, July 24 . Her sudden passing has left family, friends, colleagues at JLL, and loved ones grieving the loss of a young woman whose life was tragically cut short .
The Crash: What Happened
According to the Southampton Town Police Department, the fatal pedestrian collision occurred at approximately 8:35 a.m. on July 24 along Deerfield Road near the intersection with Head of Pond Road in Water Mill . Investigators reported that Rock was jogging northbound on Deerfield Road when she was struck by a southbound four-door sedan . Police later identified the vehicle as a Toyota .
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene near 970 Deerfield Road and attempted to provide medical assistance . Despite their efforts, Rock was pronounced dead at the location due to the severity of the injuries she sustained in the crash .
Driver Cooperates With Investigation
Police said the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene following the collision and fully cooperated with investigators . The driver was later transported to Southampton Hospital for evaluation and subsequently released . Authorities have not announced any charges at this time, and the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under active investigation .
The section of Deerfield Road between Head of Pond Road and Edge of Woods Road stayed closed into the afternoon while police processed the scene, and drivers were urged to avoid the area .
A Promising Career at JLL
Stefani Rock was an associate broker at JLL specializing in New York City commercial office leasing . She joined JLL’s New York office in April 2024 and quickly established herself as a rising talent in the competitive Manhattan commercial real estate market .
During her time at the firm, Rock worked on several notable Manhattan commercial lease deals. In 2024, she represented GlossGenius, a beauty-tech startup, in a full-floor lease of nearly 14,000 square feet at ZG Capital Partners’ 838 Broadway alongside a JLL team . The same year, she was part of a JLL team that represented investment firm JAB Holding Company in a nearly 12,000-square-foot office lease on the 11th floor of Rabina’s 88-story mixed-use tower in Midtown Manhattan .
Prior to joining JLL, Rock served as a marketing intern for Brookfield Property Partners in New York City during the summer of 2018, gaining valuable experience in commercial real estate . Her colleagues remember her as a dedicated professional with a bright future in the industry.
Community Response
News of Rock’s passing has brought deep sadness to those who knew her. Friends and community members have shared messages of sympathy and remembrance, honoring her life and expressing support for her family during this incredibly difficult time . Many are remembering Rock for the person she was and the impact she had on those around her.
The tragic incident was among two serious pedestrian-related crashes reported on Long Island within a short period. In Nassau County, a man was seriously injured while walking on Jerusalem Avenue around 10:30 p.m. Thursday, July 23 . While investigations continue, authorities are reminding motorists and pedestrians of the importance of awareness and caution when sharing roadways.
Ongoing Investigation
Southampton Town Police continue to gather information regarding the collision and are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information, including dash-cam or cellphone video, to contact investigators . The tip line number is 631-728-3451 .
As Stefani Rock’s family and friends navigate this profound loss, heartfelt condolences are extended to everyone affected by her passing. Her memory will continue through the lives she touched, the relationships she built, and the professional legacy she leaves behind at JLL and in the New York City commercial real estate community.
Leave a Reply