ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – On February 9, 2024, at approximately 10:01 PM a NYS Park Police Officer observed a vehicle traveling a high rate of speed northbound on the Palisades Interstate Parkway near Exit 17. The Park Police Officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop at which time the vehicle failed to comply and fled. The Park Police officer terminated pursuing the vehicle and observed the suspect vehicle exit the Parkway at Exit 18 heading westbound on US Route 6.
The Park Police Officer continued onto US Route 6 westbound at a reduced speed. Approximately 3 miles up the road on US Route 6, the Park Police Officer observed a 3-car motor vehicle accident.
Investigation revealed that the suspect vehicle, a 2019 Infiniti, had been travelling westbound on US Route 6 when it rear-ended a Toyota Sienna which was also travelling westbound. The result of this collision caused the Toyota Sienna to cross over into the eastbound lane of US Route 6 where the Toyota Sienna was then struck by a 2017 Mercedes travelling eastbound on US Route 6. The two individuals in the suspect vehicle fled the scene. Two individuals in the Toyota Sienna were deceased at the scene. Another passenger in the Toyota Sienna was transported to Westchester Medical Center for treatment. The operator of the Mercedes was transported to Garnet Medical Center and treated for minor injuries. The alleged suspects have been located.
There is no threat to the public at this time. This investigation is ongoing. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office and New York State Park Police are assisting the NYSP with the investigation. Troop F BCI is asking for anyone who witnessed the accident, or has information, to call SP Middletown at 845-344-5300.