MASSAPEQUA, NY – A tragic accident on Easter Sunday left a community reeling after a three-car collision claimed the life of a 48-year-old man. The crash, which unfolded on Sunrise Highway in Massapequa, involved a 19-year-old driver from Medford accused of driving under the influence.
Witnesses described a harrowing scene as the teenager, identified as Brian Will Mural Guy August, allegedly drove a Bentley eastward. Authorities report that he veered from the left turn lane into the middle lanes, colliding with a white Polaris Slingshot, a three-wheeled motorcycle. The impact sent the motorcycle careening into a Kia SUV carrying two adults and four children.
The male victim, who was ejected from the Slingshot, was found without a pulse despite efforts to administer CPR. Court documents reveal that August exhibited signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and slurred speech, and he refused a breathalyzer test at the scene.
August has been charged with several offenses, including manslaughter and driving while intoxicated. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. The gravity of the situation has left families devastated, especially the parents of the young driver, who now face the reality of their child’s actions.
The incident has sparked conversations about the dangers of drunk driving, particularly in New York and Long Island, where residents claim the situation has worsened. “It’s a beautiful night turned tragic,” one local resident lamented, emphasizing the need for stricter measures to prevent such occurrences.
A judge has set August’s bail at $500,000 cash and $1.025 million bond. His driver’s license has been suspended as part of the legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the female passenger from the Slingshot remains hospitalized with severe injuries.
The community mourns the loss of a life and the impact on all involved, urging for greater awareness and responsibility on the roads to prevent future tragedies.