Lindsey Parke and Alexa Duryea, both 19, died after a BMW struck a tree and a building late Friday in Nassau County.
HICKSVILLE, NY — Two teenagers from Levittown, including a volunteer firefighter, were killed late Friday when a BMW lost control on Old Country Road and crashed into a tree and a building, Nassau County police said. The wreck happened around 11:30 p.m. near Sterling Place.
Authorities identified the victims as Lindsey Rose Parke, 19, a volunteer firefighter and EMT with the Levittown Fire Department, and her friend, Alexa Duryea, 19. Police said a 23-year-old man was driving a 2026 white BMW westbound before crossing into oncoming lanes and leaving the roadway. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation. An investigation into speed, road conditions and other factors is underway. The deaths have shaken Levittown and the wider fire service community as family, friends and fellow firefighters gathered this week to honor Parke and grieve both young women.
Police said the BMW was traveling west on Old Country Road when the driver lost control, crossed over, and struck a tree before hitting a nearby building. Parke and Duryea, both passengers, suffered severe trauma and were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver’s name was not released as of Wednesday, and no charges had been announced. “Her smile and willingness to help anyone will be forever missed,” the Levittown Fire Department said of Parke in a public tribute. The department noted Parke served with Ladder Company 6. Firefighters escorted her family during services in Levittown on Wednesday as neighbors left flowers near the station house and at the crash site.
Officials said the crash occurred in a commercial stretch of Old Country Road with multiple lanes and heavy nighttime traffic. The impact damaged the front of the building the car struck; building officials assessed the structure for safety while tow crews removed debris. Nassau County police collision investigators documented the scene, mapped skid marks and collected vehicle data. Friends identified Duryea as a recent high school graduate who worked locally while taking classes. Loved ones described both teens as inseparable. The department remembered Parke for bringing baked goods to crews after drills and for volunteering at community events. Exact travel speeds and whether impairment played any role remain unknown. Investigators said they will review surveillance video from nearby businesses.
Records show Old Country Road has been the site of prior serious collisions near Sterling Place, a corridor lined with shops, parking lots and driveway cuts that can complicate traffic patterns. Local leaders have previously debated signal timing and turn-lane design along the stretch. Fire officials said Parke joined as a junior member before earning her firefighter and EMT credentials last year. The Levittown Fire Department has about 250 volunteers who answer thousands of calls annually, and members said the loss of a young responder resonated across Long Island departments that rely on volunteers. Friends said Duryea grew up in Levittown and shared a close circle with Parke, including classmates and coworkers from neighborhood businesses.
Police said their investigation will include mechanical inspections of the BMW, toxicology screening for the driver and a review of data modules that record speed and braking. Detectives will also interview witnesses and canvass for additional video. As of Wednesday, no criminal charges had been filed and the driver remained hospitalized. Funeral services for Parke were held in Levittown on Wednesday, with a department honor guard present. Arrangements for Duryea were being finalized by her family. Officials said the case will be referred to prosecutors if evidence indicates vehicular crimes; otherwise, a final report will detail findings on cause and contributing factors.
Outside the firehouse, mourners lit candles and placed turnout gear ribbons on a memorial board. Fellow volunteers described Parke as “first to sign up and last to leave” at drills. A classmate said Duryea “always checked on everyone,” recalling the pair arriving together at school events. At the crash corner, workers swept glass while a small crowd gathered quietly as dusk fell. A local cafe left a note in its window thanking both teens for “kindness and laughter.” A flag flew at half-staff over the station as engines idled for the final bell tribute during Wednesday’s service.
By Wednesday evening, police said the roadway had reopened and the damaged storefront was secured. Investigators planned to return for follow-up measurements and to collect remaining video before completing their report. Community memorials are expected through the week, with another remembrance planned in Levittown this weekend.
Author note: Last updated January 28, 2026.