Tragedy struck once again on Ocean Avenue in Ronkonkoma. One teenager was killed and his passenger was injured when their car collided with a truck. The teens were traveling south on Ocean Avenue, and the other driver was headed west on Veterans Memorial Highway when the two collided. The cause of the crash is not known at this time. It has not been reported if drugs or alcohol was a factor in this incident. The driver of the truck was arrested for driving with a revoked license, and pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor charge. The injured teen was last reported to be in critical condition at Stony Brook University Medical Center. He is a student at Connetquot High School, as was the driver, who was pronounced dead at Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. The driver is the third teenage victim from car accidents on Ocean Avenue in the last two years. Two teens were killed in separate crashes in 2008, both having graduated just months earlier. In response to these accidents, Connetquot schools are increasing driver’s safety courses. Crisis counselors are available to any student who wishes to speak with them about the tragedy.
The driver of the truck was charged with third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and the Suffolk District Attorney’s office will determine if additional charges will be filed. He has a previous criminal history which includes possession of a controlled substance and petty larceny. His bail was set at $25,000 due to the seriousness of this incident and his past.
Anyone who has been injured in an accident involving a car or truck should contact a New York Injury Lawyer to represent their interests. There are also New York Car Accident Lawyers available to those affected by an automobile accident, regardless of if you caused the accident or were a victim. Loved ones of those killed in car related crashes, have rights as well.