Officials say that the accident happened just before 11 p.m. when a sedan hit the back of a tractor-trailer that was stopped on the shoulder of the Van Wyck Expressway.
The 28-year-old passenger was pronounced dead at the scene and the 32-year-old driver was treated for minor injuries.
The driver was then taken into custody by police, who suspected they were driving under the influence, officials said.
Charges for the driver were pending.
ALSO READ | Rockefeller tree lighting: What to know about the Christmas tradition in NYC
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lit
----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Follow us on YouTube
* More local news
* Send us a news tip
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts