Via MattarMedia Buffalo, New York – The Law Offices of William Mattar announced that they have begun construction to expand their Williamsville office by an additional 4000 square feet in order to meet the growing needs of their clients.
“Our focus on motor vehicle accidents gives us great expertise in this area. Expanding the firm will allow us the opportunity to keep our clients the first priority; helping more people to achieve a maximized result from their injury,” explains attorney William K. Mattar.
The firm opened for business in 1990 and has continued to develop its client base. This recent expansion positions the Law Offices of William Mattar for continued growth and the ability to serve more clients.
With offices in Williamsville and Rochester, William Mattar Law Offices is committed to helping those who are injured in motor vehicle accidents. To learn more about William K. Mattar, P.C., visit www.mattar.com.
Friday, October 30, 2009
4 injured in New Hartford crash
Via MattarMedia NEW HARTFORD - Four people were injured Thursday in a two-car accident in front of Bremer’s Wine & Liquors on Commercial Drive, the New Hartford Police Department said.
Maria Trainor, 54, of New Hartford was turning left from Commercial Drive into the Bremer’s parking lot at about 6:20 p.m. Thursday when her vehicle was struck by an eastbound vehicle driven by 34-year-old Stacy Slattery of Yorkville, police said.
Trainor sustained a laceration to her head during the accident, and Slattery complained of neck and back pain. Slattery’s two daughters, who were passengers in her vehicle, complained of chest pain, police said.
All four were treated at the scene and transported to Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare’s St. Luke’s campus for further treatment, police said.
Both drivers were ticketed after the accident: Trainor for failure to yield the right of way when making a left turn and Slattery for driving with an expired license, police said.
Two lanes of Commercial Drive were closed for about 45 minutes as the scene was investigated and crews cleaned up fluid that leaked from the two damaged vehicles, police said.
Maria Trainor, 54, of New Hartford was turning left from Commercial Drive into the Bremer’s parking lot at about 6:20 p.m. Thursday when her vehicle was struck by an eastbound vehicle driven by 34-year-old Stacy Slattery of Yorkville, police said.
Trainor sustained a laceration to her head during the accident, and Slattery complained of neck and back pain. Slattery’s two daughters, who were passengers in her vehicle, complained of chest pain, police said.
All four were treated at the scene and transported to Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare’s St. Luke’s campus for further treatment, police said.
Both drivers were ticketed after the accident: Trainor for failure to yield the right of way when making a left turn and Slattery for driving with an expired license, police said.
Two lanes of Commercial Drive were closed for about 45 minutes as the scene was investigated and crews cleaned up fluid that leaked from the two damaged vehicles, police said.
Teen faces DWI charge after crashing stolen car
Via MattarMedia NEW HARTFORD - A 17-year-old Utica youth was charged with driving while intoxicated early Wednesday after he was involved in a car accident using a stolen vehicle, New Hartford police said.
In addition to DWI, Colin Cha was charged with driving without a license, passing a red light, and leaving the scene of a property damage motor vehicle accident, Officer Matthew Sica said. He also was arrested for criminal possession of stolen property, a felony.
Police were called to the corner of Oneida Street and Kellogg Road about 1:49 a.m. Wednesday in response to a two-car accident, Sica said. While en route to the scene, police were advised that a male driver of one of the vehicles had fled on foot.
Responding officers checked the area and located Cha a short distance away, Sica said. Cha was later identified as the operator of the vehicle that was traveling south on Oneida Street when it passed through a red light and struck a vehicle driven by Sergey Zaishnikov, 22, of Utica, Sica said.
Cha did not own the vehicle he had been driving, Sica said, but further investigation revealed that the vehicle had been stolen from a Seward Avenue residence in Utica over night.
Cha was arraigned in New Hartford Town Court and sent to the Oneida County jail on bail, Sica said. He is due to return to court at a later date.
In addition to DWI, Colin Cha was charged with driving without a license, passing a red light, and leaving the scene of a property damage motor vehicle accident, Officer Matthew Sica said. He also was arrested for criminal possession of stolen property, a felony.
Police were called to the corner of Oneida Street and Kellogg Road about 1:49 a.m. Wednesday in response to a two-car accident, Sica said. While en route to the scene, police were advised that a male driver of one of the vehicles had fled on foot.
Responding officers checked the area and located Cha a short distance away, Sica said. Cha was later identified as the operator of the vehicle that was traveling south on Oneida Street when it passed through a red light and struck a vehicle driven by Sergey Zaishnikov, 22, of Utica, Sica said.
Cha did not own the vehicle he had been driving, Sica said, but further investigation revealed that the vehicle had been stolen from a Seward Avenue residence in Utica over night.
Cha was arraigned in New Hartford Town Court and sent to the Oneida County jail on bail, Sica said. He is due to return to court at a later date.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Lee accident sends 2 to hospital
Via MattarMedia - LEE, N.Y. (WKTV) - Two drivers are sent to the hospital after a crash in the town of Lee.
Authorities say Patrick Tebo was driving on Route 69 Wednesday night and went to make a left turn into a store parking lot. They say he was hit from behind by Edward Snow.
Emergency crews rushed both to area hospitals with minor injuries. Firefighters had to close the road for two hours to clean up the scene.
The investigation into the accident is continuing.
Authorities say Patrick Tebo was driving on Route 69 Wednesday night and went to make a left turn into a store parking lot. They say he was hit from behind by Edward Snow.
Emergency crews rushed both to area hospitals with minor injuries. Firefighters had to close the road for two hours to clean up the scene.
The investigation into the accident is continuing.
Man imprisoned in car crash death
Via MattarMedia - The man who lost control of his vehicle in March after drinking and driving, which led to his friend's death, was sentenced Wednesday to 3½ to 7 years in prison.
Michael S. McLevy, 23, of Parma was convicted earlier this month of criminally negligent homicide and second-degree vehicular manslaughter in the death of Anthony M. Mastrodonato, 23, of Spencerport in a one-car crash in Gates March 27.
Though McLevy was also convicted of driving while intoxicated and driving while ability impaired by a combination of alcohol and drugs, he was acquitted of driving while ability impaired by drugs. A Monroe County jury also acquitted him of second-degree manslaughter, the highest felony charge that had been filed by the prosecution.
McLevy was driving his car, with Mastrodonato as a passenger, at 2 a.m. when he lost control on Spencerport Road, near Marc-Mar Trail. The car was traveling at 83 mph when it hit a landscape embankment, flipped, landed on its roof and caught fire.
Before sentencing McLevy to the maximum, Judge Patricia D. Marks listened to Mastrodonato's sister speak on behalf of his family and to a letter written by Mastrodonato's mother and read by Monroe County Assistant District Attorney Perry Duckles. Both stated that McLevy's actions that night destroyed the family.
"When Anthony died, I lost more than my baby brother, I lost my best friend," said his sister, Gina Mastrodonato, 26.
McLevy also wrote a letter that his attorney, Mark Young, read before the sentencing.
McLevy said in his letter that he lost his best friend in that accident and that every morning he wakes up he feels "awful."
"I truly miss my best friend," McLevy's letter read. He added that in August he and his girlfriend had a baby and they named him Christian Anthony McLevy, in honor of Mastrodonato.
Michael S. McLevy, 23, of Parma was convicted earlier this month of criminally negligent homicide and second-degree vehicular manslaughter in the death of Anthony M. Mastrodonato, 23, of Spencerport in a one-car crash in Gates March 27.
Though McLevy was also convicted of driving while intoxicated and driving while ability impaired by a combination of alcohol and drugs, he was acquitted of driving while ability impaired by drugs. A Monroe County jury also acquitted him of second-degree manslaughter, the highest felony charge that had been filed by the prosecution.
McLevy was driving his car, with Mastrodonato as a passenger, at 2 a.m. when he lost control on Spencerport Road, near Marc-Mar Trail. The car was traveling at 83 mph when it hit a landscape embankment, flipped, landed on its roof and caught fire.
Before sentencing McLevy to the maximum, Judge Patricia D. Marks listened to Mastrodonato's sister speak on behalf of his family and to a letter written by Mastrodonato's mother and read by Monroe County Assistant District Attorney Perry Duckles. Both stated that McLevy's actions that night destroyed the family.
"When Anthony died, I lost more than my baby brother, I lost my best friend," said his sister, Gina Mastrodonato, 26.
McLevy also wrote a letter that his attorney, Mark Young, read before the sentencing.
McLevy said in his letter that he lost his best friend in that accident and that every morning he wakes up he feels "awful."
"I truly miss my best friend," McLevy's letter read. He added that in August he and his girlfriend had a baby and they named him Christian Anthony McLevy, in honor of Mastrodonato.
Stop-DWI crackdown across New York
Via MattarMedia - BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - This week marks the sixth of seven STOP-DWI crackdown periods across the state for this year.
During the enforcement wave, local law enforcement agencies statewide will be out in force, utilizing sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols, to deter drunk driving and ensure the safety of our roadways.
Motorists are reminded that driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher will put them over the limit and under arrest.
STOP-DWI, or "Special Traffic Options Program for Driving While Intoxicated," is a comprehensive and financially self-sustaining highway safety program.
All 62 counties in New York are participating in the program, which allows each county to establish a STOP-DWI Program that qualifies for the return of all fines collected for alcohol and other drug-related traffic offenses occurring within its jurisdiction.
The other STOP-DWI crackdown periods are: January 26th - February 2nd, Superbowl Sunday; March 9th - March 17th, St. Patrick's Day; May 21st - May 25th, Memorial Day; June 21st - July 5th,Fourth of July; August 21st - September 7th - National Over the Limit-Under Arrest Enforcement; November 20th - January 2nd, Holiday Season.
During the enforcement wave, local law enforcement agencies statewide will be out in force, utilizing sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols, to deter drunk driving and ensure the safety of our roadways.
Motorists are reminded that driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher will put them over the limit and under arrest.
STOP-DWI, or "Special Traffic Options Program for Driving While Intoxicated," is a comprehensive and financially self-sustaining highway safety program.
All 62 counties in New York are participating in the program, which allows each county to establish a STOP-DWI Program that qualifies for the return of all fines collected for alcohol and other drug-related traffic offenses occurring within its jurisdiction.
The other STOP-DWI crackdown periods are: January 26th - February 2nd, Superbowl Sunday; March 9th - March 17th, St. Patrick's Day; May 21st - May 25th, Memorial Day; June 21st - July 5th,Fourth of July; August 21st - September 7th - National Over the Limit-Under Arrest Enforcement; November 20th - January 2nd, Holiday Season.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Pilots Who Forgot to Land No Longer Allowed to Fly
Via MattarMedia - The Northwest Airlines pilots who failed to respond to air-traffic controllers for 90 minutes, missed their destination by 120 miles, and claimed they had "lost track of time" while using their laptops, have been stripped of their licenses by the FAA.
The pilots were said to have broken several federal regulations. The report didn't say which ones, but most likely the ones that say pilots are supposed to respond to air-traffic controllers, land when they are supposed to land, and just generally fly the plane rather than messing around on their laptops.
I'm paraphrasing.
"Shouldn't we land?" "No . . . That's just what they'll be expecting us to do." The pilots told the NTSB that they had been using their laptops to practice using new scheduling software that is being phased in by Northwest. Since these guys are in their mid-50s, they probably were not caught up in World of Warcraft or something like that, but there is still something odd about the software-practice excuse. Even if a plane is on autopilot, 90 minutes seems like an awfully long time to stare into a laptop with that kind of single-minded concentration WHILE YOU HAPPEN TO BE IN CHARGE OF AN AIRPLANE.
According to the NYT report, the men admitted that during the 90 minutes in question, "they heard voices on their cockpit radio, but ignored them." Attention, Northwest Airlines: if your scheduling software is really so complicated that it could cause two pilots to ignore the increasingly concerned voices of a dozen different air-traffic controllers for an hour and a half, you need new software.
The pilots were said to have broken several federal regulations. The report didn't say which ones, but most likely the ones that say pilots are supposed to respond to air-traffic controllers, land when they are supposed to land, and just generally fly the plane rather than messing around on their laptops.
I'm paraphrasing.
"Shouldn't we land?" "No . . . That's just what they'll be expecting us to do." The pilots told the NTSB that they had been using their laptops to practice using new scheduling software that is being phased in by Northwest. Since these guys are in their mid-50s, they probably were not caught up in World of Warcraft or something like that, but there is still something odd about the software-practice excuse. Even if a plane is on autopilot, 90 minutes seems like an awfully long time to stare into a laptop with that kind of single-minded concentration WHILE YOU HAPPEN TO BE IN CHARGE OF AN AIRPLANE.
According to the NYT report, the men admitted that during the 90 minutes in question, "they heard voices on their cockpit radio, but ignored them." Attention, Northwest Airlines: if your scheduling software is really so complicated that it could cause two pilots to ignore the increasingly concerned voices of a dozen different air-traffic controllers for an hour and a half, you need new software.
Sleep deprived drivers take big risk
Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Experts have a warning that getting behind the wheel when you are sleep deprived can be just as dangerous as drinking and driving.
Accidents are often caused by drunk driving, but they may just as easily be due to drowsy driving.
One person said, "I fell asleep and rolled the car over. I didn't even realize I was falling asleep."
That happens frequently.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving causes about a 100,000 crashes each year, about 1,050 deaths, 71,000 injuries, and $12.5 billion in damage.
There's an easy way to prevent that.
Dr. Jonathan Edelson of Sisters Hospital said, "It's pretty simple. When you're tired, you don't get behind the wheel or you pull over, close your eyes until you're awake enough to continue driving."
Dr. Edelson is a sleep medicine specialist.
He's seen many patients who had drowsy-driving accidents.
It's estimated that about half of all drivers have experienced drowsiness and there's no substitute for the sleep that you need.
"If you feel like you're falling asleep, open windows in the car, run the air conditioner full blast," Dr. Edelson said.
Being sleep-deprived for 20 hours carries the same risk as having a blood alcohol level that would be legally intoxicated.
One thing you can do if you're tired behind the wheel is stop for a cup of coffee.
That won't help if you're drunk, but it will make you more alert if you're drowsy.
"If the caffeine gives you a little burst of energy that you feel like you're awake enough to drive, you're not having head-bobs behind the wheel, then continue," Dr. Edelson stated.
But if it doesn't help, you need a nap.
"You know, if you feel like you're sleepy, then you are sleepy. There's no denying it, and that's when you should pull over and close your eyes. Pull over in a safe area," explained Dr. Edelson.
Accidents are often caused by drunk driving, but they may just as easily be due to drowsy driving.
One person said, "I fell asleep and rolled the car over. I didn't even realize I was falling asleep."
That happens frequently.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving causes about a 100,000 crashes each year, about 1,050 deaths, 71,000 injuries, and $12.5 billion in damage.
There's an easy way to prevent that.
Dr. Jonathan Edelson of Sisters Hospital said, "It's pretty simple. When you're tired, you don't get behind the wheel or you pull over, close your eyes until you're awake enough to continue driving."
Dr. Edelson is a sleep medicine specialist.
He's seen many patients who had drowsy-driving accidents.
It's estimated that about half of all drivers have experienced drowsiness and there's no substitute for the sleep that you need.
"If you feel like you're falling asleep, open windows in the car, run the air conditioner full blast," Dr. Edelson said.
Being sleep-deprived for 20 hours carries the same risk as having a blood alcohol level that would be legally intoxicated.
One thing you can do if you're tired behind the wheel is stop for a cup of coffee.
That won't help if you're drunk, but it will make you more alert if you're drowsy.
"If the caffeine gives you a little burst of energy that you feel like you're awake enough to drive, you're not having head-bobs behind the wheel, then continue," Dr. Edelson stated.
But if it doesn't help, you need a nap.
"You know, if you feel like you're sleepy, then you are sleepy. There's no denying it, and that's when you should pull over and close your eyes. Pull over in a safe area," explained Dr. Edelson.
Would You Do This To Prevent A Burglar From Entering Your Home?
Via MattarMedia - Sure, you might wield a gun. You might scream. How about barking like a dog? From The Athens Banner-Herald:
A Simmons Street woman scared off a would-be burglar about 11 p.m. Saturday by acting like a dog, an Athens-Clarke police report said.
When a suspicious man tried turning the woman's door knob, she got on the floor and began scratching at the door and acting like a large dog, police said, though what dog-like behaviors she specifically mimicked remains unknown.
Talk about thinking on your feet (all four of them) ...
The man, who wore an olive jacket and appeared to be homeless, quickly ran from the porch, according to the report. Police searched the neighborhood for him, but to no avail.
Who needs a dog when you can just imitate one? (Dog people - please - no hate mail!)
A Simmons Street woman scared off a would-be burglar about 11 p.m. Saturday by acting like a dog, an Athens-Clarke police report said.
When a suspicious man tried turning the woman's door knob, she got on the floor and began scratching at the door and acting like a large dog, police said, though what dog-like behaviors she specifically mimicked remains unknown.
Talk about thinking on your feet (all four of them) ...
The man, who wore an olive jacket and appeared to be homeless, quickly ran from the porch, according to the report. Police searched the neighborhood for him, but to no avail.
Who needs a dog when you can just imitate one? (Dog people - please - no hate mail!)
Watertown Man Charged with Allegedly Leading Police on High Speed Chase
Via MattarMedia - Jefferson County Sheriff's Office arrested Kavon M. Mason, 21, around 10:25 AM on October 26 for unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree.
Mason was wanted for questioning by Watertown City Police after he allegedly pointed a gun at his brother during a domestic incident which occurred earlier at 326 High Street in Watertown.
Sheriff's Deputies saw a red Chevy Monte Carlo at the Nice n' Easy on US Route 11, which belonged to Mason.
He was approached by authorities, but took off and led police on a chase into the Town of LeRay along US Route 11.
Mason was additionally charged with reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, speeding 85 MPH in a 55 MPH zone and 13 other various traffic infractions.
He was arraigned by Judge Parker in the Village of Glen Park and held on $2,500 cash bail, $5,000 bond.
Assisting the Sheriff's Office was the New York State Police and the Watertown City Police.
Watertown Police also have charges pending and recovered a 9 MM handgun in the area of pursuit.
Mason was wanted for questioning by Watertown City Police after he allegedly pointed a gun at his brother during a domestic incident which occurred earlier at 326 High Street in Watertown.
Sheriff's Deputies saw a red Chevy Monte Carlo at the Nice n' Easy on US Route 11, which belonged to Mason.
He was approached by authorities, but took off and led police on a chase into the Town of LeRay along US Route 11.
Mason was additionally charged with reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, speeding 85 MPH in a 55 MPH zone and 13 other various traffic infractions.
He was arraigned by Judge Parker in the Village of Glen Park and held on $2,500 cash bail, $5,000 bond.
Assisting the Sheriff's Office was the New York State Police and the Watertown City Police.
Watertown Police also have charges pending and recovered a 9 MM handgun in the area of pursuit.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Your text messages may be used against you...
Via MattarMedia ...if you're one of the world's dumbest criminals...
Nicholas Greenly dropped his cell phone near where an 84-year-old woman had her purse snatched in Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Cops suspected that he might be involved in the crime when they read the phone's last outgoing text message: "I am ready to grab some old lady's purse."
Nicholas Greenly dropped his cell phone near where an 84-year-old woman had her purse snatched in Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Cops suspected that he might be involved in the crime when they read the phone's last outgoing text message: "I am ready to grab some old lady's purse."
Canastota woman seriously injured in Kirkland accident
Via MattarMedia KIRKLAND - One woman was seriously injured and another received minor injuries Monday after a four-car accident at the intersection of Route 12B and Roberts Road, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office said.
19-year-old Elizabeth Quell of Canastota suffered multiple life-threatening injuries after her vehicle was struck by two others during the accident, deputies said.
State police and sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene at about 5:30 p.m. and found Quell trapped inside her vehicle, which had come to rest in a ditch along the west side of the road.
The other vehicles involved in the accident included a Subaru and an SUV, which remained in the roadway after 6 p.m.
Broken glass and other debris from the accident filled the roadway around them.
Quell remained trapped for more than 40 minutes while emergency personnel from the Clinton Fire Department used hydraulic equipment to extricate her. She later was taken to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica and then to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, deputies said.
Another driver involved in the accident, 33-year-old Angela Eastman of Deansboro, also was taken to St. Elizabeth with non-life threatening injuries. Passengers in the other vehicles were not injured, deputies said.
Deputies said the accident occurred when Quell’s vehicle was struck from behind by a second vehicle drive by 34-year-old James Brubaker of Waterville.
Quell had been stopped in the northbound lane of Route 12B at the time, but the force of the collision pushed Quell’s vehicle into the oncoming lane where it was struck broadside by Eastman’s vehicle. That vehicle then was struck from behind by a fourth vehicle driven by 38-year-old Timothy Jordan of West Edmeston, deputies said.
The accident remains under investigation, but Brubaker was issued a summons for following to closely, deputies said.
Members of the Sheriff’s Office’s criminal investigation, forensic and accident reconstruction units assisted at the scene, as did the state Department of Transportation.
Officers used spotlights from a Clinton Fire Department vehicle to illuminate the scene as the sun set at about 6:30 p.m. Deputies could be seen inspecting the vehicles with flashlights and photographing the scene. Two men who appeared to have been involved in the crash were talking to officers nearby.
Route 12B was closed in both directions for several hours as a result of the accident.
19-year-old Elizabeth Quell of Canastota suffered multiple life-threatening injuries after her vehicle was struck by two others during the accident, deputies said.
State police and sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene at about 5:30 p.m. and found Quell trapped inside her vehicle, which had come to rest in a ditch along the west side of the road.
The other vehicles involved in the accident included a Subaru and an SUV, which remained in the roadway after 6 p.m.
Broken glass and other debris from the accident filled the roadway around them.
Quell remained trapped for more than 40 minutes while emergency personnel from the Clinton Fire Department used hydraulic equipment to extricate her. She later was taken to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica and then to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, deputies said.
Another driver involved in the accident, 33-year-old Angela Eastman of Deansboro, also was taken to St. Elizabeth with non-life threatening injuries. Passengers in the other vehicles were not injured, deputies said.
Deputies said the accident occurred when Quell’s vehicle was struck from behind by a second vehicle drive by 34-year-old James Brubaker of Waterville.
Quell had been stopped in the northbound lane of Route 12B at the time, but the force of the collision pushed Quell’s vehicle into the oncoming lane where it was struck broadside by Eastman’s vehicle. That vehicle then was struck from behind by a fourth vehicle driven by 38-year-old Timothy Jordan of West Edmeston, deputies said.
The accident remains under investigation, but Brubaker was issued a summons for following to closely, deputies said.
Members of the Sheriff’s Office’s criminal investigation, forensic and accident reconstruction units assisted at the scene, as did the state Department of Transportation.
Officers used spotlights from a Clinton Fire Department vehicle to illuminate the scene as the sun set at about 6:30 p.m. Deputies could be seen inspecting the vehicles with flashlights and photographing the scene. Two men who appeared to have been involved in the crash were talking to officers nearby.
Route 12B was closed in both directions for several hours as a result of the accident.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Nine-year-old injured in school van accident
Via MattarMedia - A nine-year-old boy suffered minor injuries this morning after a van crashed into his school bus. It happened on Main Street and County Road 132 in Willard, Seneca County.
A South Seneca school van was going east on Main Street when another vehicle came up the intersection and pulled out in front of the van after stopping at a stop sign.
There was only one student on board, a nine year old boy, who was treated at the scene for minor injures and then transported to Cayuga Medical Center.
The driver of the van and car were not injured. The driver of the car was ticketed for failing to yield after stopping at a stop sign.
A South Seneca school van was going east on Main Street when another vehicle came up the intersection and pulled out in front of the van after stopping at a stop sign.
There was only one student on board, a nine year old boy, who was treated at the scene for minor injures and then transported to Cayuga Medical Center.
The driver of the van and car were not injured. The driver of the car was ticketed for failing to yield after stopping at a stop sign.
Utah DOT: No Downside to 80 MPH Speed Limit Increase
Via MattarMedia - The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) announced last week that the experimental increase in the state's maximum speed limit to 80 MPH has been a success in terms of safety. UDOT Deputy Director Carlos Braceras testified before the state Interim Committee on Transportation that that there has been no increase in accidents as a result of the higher number printed on the speed limit signs on certain stretches of Interstate 15.
In 2008, the state legislature granted UDOT permission to test higher limits on rural sections of the road. Using crash histories, engineering studies, UDOT carefully selected the areas that it believed would best handle the increased limit. The department then conducted before and after surveys of speeds and traffic volume on the three sections where the limit was changed. Although the signs permitted another 5 MPH in speed, the results showed that drivers did not 'take advantage' of the new limit to drive significantly faster.
"Overall we saw speeds increase between two and three miles per hour," Braceras explained. "The speed differentials did increase... We saw no change in accident history, which with how careful we were in choosing this location it wasn't surprising to us, but it was very good news to see that... The number of vehicles exceeding the speed limit decreased 20 percent."
"One of the concerns when we presented this bill a couple of sessions ago was that people would increase speeds to 90 or 95 and there would be tremendous carnage on the road," Dunnigan said. "So even though it has only been a year, that has not happened. And really all that's happened is that people haven't changed their speed much -- a little bit -- but they're doing so legally... So by increasing the speed limit to 80, we just made them legal."
In 2008, the state legislature granted UDOT permission to test higher limits on rural sections of the road. Using crash histories, engineering studies, UDOT carefully selected the areas that it believed would best handle the increased limit. The department then conducted before and after surveys of speeds and traffic volume on the three sections where the limit was changed. Although the signs permitted another 5 MPH in speed, the results showed that drivers did not 'take advantage' of the new limit to drive significantly faster.
"Overall we saw speeds increase between two and three miles per hour," Braceras explained. "The speed differentials did increase... We saw no change in accident history, which with how careful we were in choosing this location it wasn't surprising to us, but it was very good news to see that... The number of vehicles exceeding the speed limit decreased 20 percent."
"One of the concerns when we presented this bill a couple of sessions ago was that people would increase speeds to 90 or 95 and there would be tremendous carnage on the road," Dunnigan said. "So even though it has only been a year, that has not happened. And really all that's happened is that people haven't changed their speed much -- a little bit -- but they're doing so legally... So by increasing the speed limit to 80, we just made them legal."
Police officer injured in crash
Via MattarMedia UTICA - A city police officer responding to a call was injured Saturday night in a motor vehicle accident, police said.
Officer Paul Paladino suffered a broken ankle in the 8:35 p.m. crash at State and Mandeville streets as he was responding to a call of a fight, Lt. Wayne Manolescu said.
Paladino was transported to St. Elizabeth Medical Center for treatment.
The two occupants of the other vehicle suffered minor injuries. It was unclear whether they needed to be transported to the hospital, and their identities were not available late Saturday night.
Manolescu said the accident report was not yet available to provide further details.
Bystanders at the scene said the police car did have its lights and sirens activated.
Officer Paul Paladino suffered a broken ankle in the 8:35 p.m. crash at State and Mandeville streets as he was responding to a call of a fight, Lt. Wayne Manolescu said.
Paladino was transported to St. Elizabeth Medical Center for treatment.
The two occupants of the other vehicle suffered minor injuries. It was unclear whether they needed to be transported to the hospital, and their identities were not available late Saturday night.
Manolescu said the accident report was not yet available to provide further details.
Bystanders at the scene said the police car did have its lights and sirens activated.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Two flee crime, crash into trooper SUV
Via MattarMedia CLARENCE, N.Y. (WIVB) - State Police arrested two people accused of crashing into a trooper's SUV while fleeing a crime scene.
Troopers said Theodore Calhoun and Tracy Sylvester tried to steal cigarettes from a Kwil Fill at Main and Kraus in Clarence.
Troopers said Theodore Calhoun and Tracy Sylvester tried to steal cigarettes from a Kwil Fill at Main and Kraus in Clarence.
LWI? La-Z-Boy While Intoxicated - Really
Via MattarMedia - This one is unbelievable. As reported by The Juice:
This story is truly wacky. First, you have a Proctor, Minnesota man who took a La-Z-Boy chair and put a lawnmower motor in it, and a steering wheel. Per the Duluth News Tribune, "It has a stereo, cup holders and other custom options, including different power levels." All tricked out and no place to go? Not exactly. Dennis LeRoy Anderson (62!) took his chair out on the town. And got lit. Then he took to the streets - and crashed into a parked car! How drunk was he? Really, really drunk (.29). Oh, and ...
He has one prior DWI conviction.
Doh! In fairness, I should mention that Mr. Anderson offered an explanation for the accident:
Anderson claimed he was driving the chair fine until a woman jumped on it and knocked the chair off course.
Curse you woman! You know the crime (he pleaded guilty). The time?
Judge Heather Sweetland sentenced Anderson to 180 days in the St. Louis County Jail or at the Northeast Regional Corrections Center and fined him $2,000 plus court fees. She stayed the jail time and one-half of the fine for two years of supervised probation. As conditions of his probation, Anderson must submit to a chemical dependency assessment, follow all recommendations, abstain from alcohol and unprescribed drugs, be subject to random testing and undergo 30 days of electronic monitoring.
5 injured in crash; car then strikes building
Via MattarMedia UTICA - Five people were injured in a collision late Thursday night at the intersection of Eagle Street and Conkling Avenue, Utica police at the scene said.
Police said a vehicle with four people in it was headed west on Eagle Street at about 10:30 p.m. when it drove past a red light and struck a southbound vehicle on Conkling Avenue driven by a elderly man.
None of their identities was immediately available, nor was the extent of their injuries.
The car traveling on Eagle Street ended up crashing into a building at the southwest corner of the intersection. One person from that vehicle had to be extricated by Utica firefighters.
Utica Fire Department ambulances were assisted by Kunkel and Edwards.
Most of the victims were transported to St. Elizabeth Medical Center; at least one was taken to St. Luke's Healthcare, St. Luke's campus.
Police said a vehicle with four people in it was headed west on Eagle Street at about 10:30 p.m. when it drove past a red light and struck a southbound vehicle on Conkling Avenue driven by a elderly man.
None of their identities was immediately available, nor was the extent of their injuries.
The car traveling on Eagle Street ended up crashing into a building at the southwest corner of the intersection. One person from that vehicle had to be extricated by Utica firefighters.
Utica Fire Department ambulances were assisted by Kunkel and Edwards.
Most of the victims were transported to St. Elizabeth Medical Center; at least one was taken to St. Luke's Healthcare, St. Luke's campus.
County cracks down on driver texting
Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Erie County is slamming the brakes on texting while driving.
Deadly crashes linked to texting while driving are becoming more and more common and in Erie County, legislators want to do something to stop them.
Late this afternoon, the Erie County Legislature put its own texting while driving law on the books, which is even tougher than the current state ban.
As soon as the County Executive signs it, texting while driving in the County becomes a primary offense.
This means that all officers who patrol in Erie County can pull texters over on the spot.
The New York ban was approved only as a secondary offense, meaning troopers cannot stop anyone for driving with a cell, unless the motorist commits another offense.
The County ban is similar to the one passed recently in Niagara and Cattauragus Counties.
It comes with $150.00 fine.
Deadly crashes linked to texting while driving are becoming more and more common and in Erie County, legislators want to do something to stop them.
Late this afternoon, the Erie County Legislature put its own texting while driving law on the books, which is even tougher than the current state ban.
As soon as the County Executive signs it, texting while driving in the County becomes a primary offense.
This means that all officers who patrol in Erie County can pull texters over on the spot.
The New York ban was approved only as a secondary offense, meaning troopers cannot stop anyone for driving with a cell, unless the motorist commits another offense.
The County ban is similar to the one passed recently in Niagara and Cattauragus Counties.
It comes with $150.00 fine.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Can You Tell Someone Is Guilty Just By Looking At Them? Absolutely
Via MattarMedia - This guy could not have made it easier for the police officer to bust him. He just flat-out looked guilty. From www.pennlive.com:
Cesar Lopez, a 29-year-old Lebanon, Pa., man, was busted Saturday when he walked up to a police officer with a small bag of marijuana stuck to his forehead, according to Lebanon police.
Police said the officer went into a Turkey Hill convenience store on Lehman Street at 3:25 a.m. Saturday and saw Lopez holding a baseball cap and peering inside it. When Lopez approached the officer, he looked up, and the officer said he saw a small plastic bag stuck to Lopez's forehead. The bag appeared to contain marijuana, police said.
The officer retrieved the bag from Lopez’s forehead and said, “Is this what you are looking for?,” according to the police report. Lopez was charged with possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Kind of bizarre, right? Not too.
It is not uncommon for people to hide drugs in the inside lip of a cap, police said.
Cesar Lopez, a 29-year-old Lebanon, Pa., man, was busted Saturday when he walked up to a police officer with a small bag of marijuana stuck to his forehead, according to Lebanon police.
Police said the officer went into a Turkey Hill convenience store on Lehman Street at 3:25 a.m. Saturday and saw Lopez holding a baseball cap and peering inside it. When Lopez approached the officer, he looked up, and the officer said he saw a small plastic bag stuck to Lopez's forehead. The bag appeared to contain marijuana, police said.
The officer retrieved the bag from Lopez’s forehead and said, “Is this what you are looking for?,” according to the police report. Lopez was charged with possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Kind of bizarre, right? Not too.
It is not uncommon for people to hide drugs in the inside lip of a cap, police said.
Accident involving school bus in Gates
Via MattarMedia - Three people are injured in accident, involving a school bus.
Three people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, after their car hit a school bus on Spencerport Road at Rita Drive in Gates. It happened around 3:30 p.m. this afternoon.
There were no kids on board the bus. Police say the car tried to avoid another stopped car by swerving, right into the path of the Spencerport school bus.
The bus swerved but couldn't avoid hitting the car.
Three people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, after their car hit a school bus on Spencerport Road at Rita Drive in Gates. It happened around 3:30 p.m. this afternoon.
There were no kids on board the bus. Police say the car tried to avoid another stopped car by swerving, right into the path of the Spencerport school bus.
The bus swerved but couldn't avoid hitting the car.
When We Stop Thinking, The Machines Win
Via MattarMedia - There are more 5 million people in Scotland. So would it shock you to learn that some people have the same name? Me either. One name that at least 2 people in Scotland share is "Derek Lyon." One of them is a convicted drunk driver who lost his license, and the other is ... just Derek Lyon. Guess who the police busted? The wrong Derek Lyon. He told them that - but - you see - the machine had spoken.
And it got worse after the bogus bust. Mr. Lyon was taken to jail, where he spent 4 hours before being released. His car was impounded. Because he couldn't afford to pay the fees to get his car back, the police CRUSHED it! Nooooooooo! Without his car, Mr. Lyon couldn't get to work, and was fired. He also couldn't visit his kids for months because he lacked transportation. (He was arrested in July, and just recently acquitted.)
Think he's going to sue? As reported by Scotland TV:
Speaking after his court appearance, Mr Lyon, 36, of Balgarthno Terrace in Dundee, said he was going to sue Aberdeen Sheriff Court's clerk's office, the DVLA and Tayside Police.
He said: "I'm going to take legal action against the police for taking my car, the DVLA for putting somebody else's offence on my licence, and the court in Aberdeen.
"I haven't been able to drive until today. I spent four hours in the cells when I got arrested and my car got crushed even though I told them at the time it wasn't me.
"The police came the next day and I told them again that I'd never been in Aberdeen Sheriff Court and that I wasn't disqualified. The police in Dundee didn't believe me but a local policeman in Blairgowrie where I lived at the time did and he tried to sort things out for me."
And it got worse after the bogus bust. Mr. Lyon was taken to jail, where he spent 4 hours before being released. His car was impounded. Because he couldn't afford to pay the fees to get his car back, the police CRUSHED it! Nooooooooo! Without his car, Mr. Lyon couldn't get to work, and was fired. He also couldn't visit his kids for months because he lacked transportation. (He was arrested in July, and just recently acquitted.)
Think he's going to sue? As reported by Scotland TV:
Speaking after his court appearance, Mr Lyon, 36, of Balgarthno Terrace in Dundee, said he was going to sue Aberdeen Sheriff Court's clerk's office, the DVLA and Tayside Police.
He said: "I'm going to take legal action against the police for taking my car, the DVLA for putting somebody else's offence on my licence, and the court in Aberdeen.
"I haven't been able to drive until today. I spent four hours in the cells when I got arrested and my car got crushed even though I told them at the time it wasn't me.
"The police came the next day and I told them again that I'd never been in Aberdeen Sheriff Court and that I wasn't disqualified. The police in Dundee didn't believe me but a local policeman in Blairgowrie where I lived at the time did and he tried to sort things out for me."
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Man dragged by bus sues CTA
Via MattarMedia - A man is suing the CTA after his right leg was caught in a bus door and he was dragged down the street.
According to the complaint, on December 16, 2008, Paul Doucette was trying to catch the number 1030 bus on Madison and Wacker when he placed his right leg on the bus and the doors then closed. The complaint states that "Plaintiff's right leg was on the bus, and the rest of plaintiff's body, including his entire left leg, was outside the bus."
Despite Doucette's shouting and banging on the door, the bus moved forward and Doucette was forced to hop with his left leg until he lost his balance and was dragged for several feet. The complaint further states that Doucette feared for his life as the bus approached the Madison Avenue bridge where he would have been crushed and killed.
According to the complaint, on December 16, 2008, Paul Doucette was trying to catch the number 1030 bus on Madison and Wacker when he placed his right leg on the bus and the doors then closed. The complaint states that "Plaintiff's right leg was on the bus, and the rest of plaintiff's body, including his entire left leg, was outside the bus."
Despite Doucette's shouting and banging on the door, the bus moved forward and Doucette was forced to hop with his left leg until he lost his balance and was dragged for several feet. The complaint further states that Doucette feared for his life as the bus approached the Madison Avenue bridge where he would have been crushed and killed.
Fish Killer Gets Probation
Via MattarMedia - Donald Fite III of Portland, Oregon, pleaded guilty on October 13 to domestic violence assault (the not-funny part) and animal abuse (the in-this-case-funny part). His former girlfriend, Sarah Harris, told police that although the two had broken up, she found him one day in her apartment. He wanted to get back together, but when she refused he got angry, shoved her and pulled her hair, but she was able to escape.
When she returned with police, her ex was gone, but she found a fish from her aquarium pinned to the wooden floor with a knife through it.
Now, if this was almost any other kind of pet, I would not find this funny at all. Maybe I'm just incapable of bonding with fish. And if this had been all there was to it, probably no post. But at this point the story seemed to go a little over the top.
Harris said that the fish, a Betta or Siamese fighting fish about three inches long named "DeLorean," was very important to her and that she had cried hysterically upon seeing it impaled. "Donald bought the fish for me," she said, "and I'm sure he knew how much I cared for it." He certainly did, and admitted almost immediately that this was why he had executed it. "If she can't have me," he reportedly told police, "then she can't have the fish." He's got that first part backwards. Not only does this guy fail to treat women with respect, he can't even get his revenge saying right.
At the hearing this week, Fite's attorney said that his client did feel remorse for the ichthyocide, and that stabbing a fish represented a "very low point" in his client's life. "He is absolutely mortified and ashamed about what he did to the fish," said Tom McNair, who also noted that his client had no prior criminal record. Judge Eric Bergstrom accepted Fite's guilty plea, sentenced him to two years probation with community service and ordered him to undergo a psychological evaluation. The prosecutor also noted that Harris allegedly planned "to get a memorial tattoo of the fish" and wanted Fite to pay for it, but Judge Bergstrom denied that request.
According to the report, the judge also ordered Fite to stay away from Harris, "but said he could have contact with fish."
When she returned with police, her ex was gone, but she found a fish from her aquarium pinned to the wooden floor with a knife through it.
Now, if this was almost any other kind of pet, I would not find this funny at all. Maybe I'm just incapable of bonding with fish. And if this had been all there was to it, probably no post. But at this point the story seemed to go a little over the top.
Harris said that the fish, a Betta or Siamese fighting fish about three inches long named "DeLorean," was very important to her and that she had cried hysterically upon seeing it impaled. "Donald bought the fish for me," she said, "and I'm sure he knew how much I cared for it." He certainly did, and admitted almost immediately that this was why he had executed it. "If she can't have me," he reportedly told police, "then she can't have the fish." He's got that first part backwards. Not only does this guy fail to treat women with respect, he can't even get his revenge saying right.
At the hearing this week, Fite's attorney said that his client did feel remorse for the ichthyocide, and that stabbing a fish represented a "very low point" in his client's life. "He is absolutely mortified and ashamed about what he did to the fish," said Tom McNair, who also noted that his client had no prior criminal record. Judge Eric Bergstrom accepted Fite's guilty plea, sentenced him to two years probation with community service and ordered him to undergo a psychological evaluation. The prosecutor also noted that Harris allegedly planned "to get a memorial tattoo of the fish" and wanted Fite to pay for it, but Judge Bergstrom denied that request.
According to the report, the judge also ordered Fite to stay away from Harris, "but said he could have contact with fish."
Second bad crash in Hannibal injures elderly woman
Via MattarMedia Hannibal, New York (WSYR-TV) - An 87-year-old woman was injured in a two-vehicle crash along State Route 104 in Hannibal Tuesday afternoon. It was just a short distance from a crash that happened earlier Tuesday that killed two people.
This crash happened at the corner of State Route 104 and County Route 21 around 4:30 PM.
The Oswego County Sheriff’s Office says 87-year-old Katherine Howell, who was driving a white sedan, was attempting to turn onto State Route 104 from County Route 21 when her vehicle was struck by a truck.
A Sheriff’s deputy says Howell was to blame for the crash.
Howell was taken to University Hospital, where she is in serious condition.
The driver of the pickup truck was not injured.
This crash happened at the corner of State Route 104 and County Route 21 around 4:30 PM.
The Oswego County Sheriff’s Office says 87-year-old Katherine Howell, who was driving a white sedan, was attempting to turn onto State Route 104 from County Route 21 when her vehicle was struck by a truck.
A Sheriff’s deputy says Howell was to blame for the crash.
Howell was taken to University Hospital, where she is in serious condition.
The driver of the pickup truck was not injured.
Go Ahead And Tase Me, Bro
Via MattarMedia - A North Queensland man, aged 21, has stunned police by proving impervious to a Taser deployment and casually removing the barbs - not once but three times.
Octavian Borges casually removed the barbs fired into his upper body by police during a tense situation at Townsville on Monday.
He was Tasered again twice, but on both occasions only one barb made contact and the weapon could not make a circuit.
The incredible situation developed after Borges allegedly stole a car from a Garbutt address early Monday morning.
He was chased by the vehicle's owner until he became bogged at Rowes Bay.
A brutal roadside fistfight then broke out sparking a flood of Triple 0 calls to police from passers-by.
When a crew arrived, a bleeding Borges ran off towards an RSL retirement village where he is alleged to have broken into an elderly lady's apartment.
As officers entered the unit Borges was alleged to be rifling through a cutlery drawer and removed an item placing it under his shirt.
When he approached officers in a threatening matter and refused to drop the object a Taser was presented.
He failed to comply so the weapon was deployed with the barbs hitting him in the shoulder and rib area.
Incredibly, the Taser appeared to have no effect on him and he removed the barbs, taunting police with “is that the best you’ve got?”
He then ran off out of the apartment with stunned police following close behind.
He was approached and Tasered a second time, but only one of the barbs made contact – which he again pulled out.
A third deployment was also unsuccessful and Borges allegedly pulled out a torch he was hiding under his shirt.
When police realised he was not armed with a knife, they approached him and after a short struggle were able to physically restrain him.
He was taken to Townsville Hospital for treatment for a drug-related condition and the injuries he suffered in the roadside fight.
Police said the Tasers involved in the incident had been sent to Brisbane for testing to ensure they were functioning properly.
Borges was charged with enter with intent, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and multiple counts of obstructing police and appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
He was remanded in custody until his next hearing on Monday.
Octavian Borges casually removed the barbs fired into his upper body by police during a tense situation at Townsville on Monday.
He was Tasered again twice, but on both occasions only one barb made contact and the weapon could not make a circuit.
The incredible situation developed after Borges allegedly stole a car from a Garbutt address early Monday morning.
He was chased by the vehicle's owner until he became bogged at Rowes Bay.
A brutal roadside fistfight then broke out sparking a flood of Triple 0 calls to police from passers-by.
When a crew arrived, a bleeding Borges ran off towards an RSL retirement village where he is alleged to have broken into an elderly lady's apartment.
As officers entered the unit Borges was alleged to be rifling through a cutlery drawer and removed an item placing it under his shirt.
When he approached officers in a threatening matter and refused to drop the object a Taser was presented.
He failed to comply so the weapon was deployed with the barbs hitting him in the shoulder and rib area.
Incredibly, the Taser appeared to have no effect on him and he removed the barbs, taunting police with “is that the best you’ve got?”
He then ran off out of the apartment with stunned police following close behind.
He was approached and Tasered a second time, but only one of the barbs made contact – which he again pulled out.
A third deployment was also unsuccessful and Borges allegedly pulled out a torch he was hiding under his shirt.
When police realised he was not armed with a knife, they approached him and after a short struggle were able to physically restrain him.
He was taken to Townsville Hospital for treatment for a drug-related condition and the injuries he suffered in the roadside fight.
Police said the Tasers involved in the incident had been sent to Brisbane for testing to ensure they were functioning properly.
Borges was charged with enter with intent, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and multiple counts of obstructing police and appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
He was remanded in custody until his next hearing on Monday.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Woman facing DWI charges after being clocked at 105mph
MattarMedia DANUBE, N.Y. (WKTV) - A Herkimer woman is in jail after she was allegedly traveling more than 100 miles an hour and being drunk behind the wheel.
State police say Janice Piraino, 35, was heading on State Route 5S in Danube on Sunday when she was clocked doing 105 miles per hour. After being pulled over, investigators say she refused to take a breathalyzer test.
She's now charged with DWI.
Lawyer Takes Decoration of New Office a Bit Too Far
MattarMedia - Susan McCutchen has always had a knack for interior design. Her college dorm room was inspired by her favorite designer, Lilly Pulitzer, and was a big hit with the preppy crowd at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. In law school, she was the only student who redecorated and re-painted her apartment based on the time of year. So when McCutchen walked into her new office at Holland & Knight, she had to take a moment to let the disappointment subside.
Already bored with her first assignment later that day, she had to stop to determine just what she could do to spruce up the white walls and beige carpet. Four hours later, she had a plan to create a “more inspired workspace.” After a quick trip to Pottery Barn, Target, and Calico Corners, she was ready to roll. First, she covered most of the carpet with throw rugs. Second, she put cushions on her window sill to make a comfortable reading nook and hung matching valences over the windows. Third, and finally, she installed lamps in every corner of the room.
Read the rest of the story at Litination
Already bored with her first assignment later that day, she had to stop to determine just what she could do to spruce up the white walls and beige carpet. Four hours later, she had a plan to create a “more inspired workspace.” After a quick trip to Pottery Barn, Target, and Calico Corners, she was ready to roll. First, she covered most of the carpet with throw rugs. Second, she put cushions on her window sill to make a comfortable reading nook and hung matching valences over the windows. Third, and finally, she installed lamps in every corner of the room.
Read the rest of the story at Litination
Trooper crashes vehicle at construction site
MattarMedia - A New York State trooper suffered minor injuries Monday morning after he crashed his police vehicle in a construction zone along Route 12 in Trenton, officials said.
The accident occurred about 9:20 a.m. as Trooper Christopher Tanoury was heading south on Route 12 in response to a 911 hang-up call, state police Troop D Capt. Frank Coots said. As Tanoury drove toward Deerfield from the barracks in Remsen, he approached a portion of the roadway currently under construction, north of Putnam Road, Coots said.
But as Tanoury came upon traffic in the construction zone, the trooper drove his vehicle around a set of construction cones and entered the coned-off lanes to get past the other vehicles "in order to respond quickly and efficiently," Coots said.
Tanoury, however, was not aware that part of the roadway was missing, Coots said.
The trooper's vehicle then fell into a hole about 12 inches deep where the roadway had been removed, Coots said. No construction workers were present at the site at the time.
After Tanoury himself reported the accident, he was treated at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare for injuries to his elbow and lower back, Coots said. Tanoury was released later that morning.
Tanoury has been with State Police less than 10 years, Coots said, and his employment status remains the same as the accident is probed.
"An administrative investigation will be completed, and we'll make a determination on the culpability of Trooper Tanoury," Coots said.
The accident occurred about 9:20 a.m. as Trooper Christopher Tanoury was heading south on Route 12 in response to a 911 hang-up call, state police Troop D Capt. Frank Coots said. As Tanoury drove toward Deerfield from the barracks in Remsen, he approached a portion of the roadway currently under construction, north of Putnam Road, Coots said.
But as Tanoury came upon traffic in the construction zone, the trooper drove his vehicle around a set of construction cones and entered the coned-off lanes to get past the other vehicles "in order to respond quickly and efficiently," Coots said.
Tanoury, however, was not aware that part of the roadway was missing, Coots said.
The trooper's vehicle then fell into a hole about 12 inches deep where the roadway had been removed, Coots said. No construction workers were present at the site at the time.
After Tanoury himself reported the accident, he was treated at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare for injuries to his elbow and lower back, Coots said. Tanoury was released later that morning.
Tanoury has been with State Police less than 10 years, Coots said, and his employment status remains the same as the accident is probed.
"An administrative investigation will be completed, and we'll make a determination on the culpability of Trooper Tanoury," Coots said.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Baby OK after train hits stroller in Australia
Via MattarMedia MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) - Police in Australia say a 6-month-old baby has miraculously survived a train hitting his stroller that had rolled onto the tracks.
The train pushed the stroller about 130 feet (40 meters) along the tracks before it stopped.
Security video footage released Friday shows the mother looking away for a moment when the stroller suddenly rolls off the edge of a station platform and onto the tracks. The mother panics as she looks back and sees the oncoming train hit the stroller, but the baby boy survived with only minor injuries.
Victoria state Police Sergeant Michael Ferwerda called Thursday's incident a "lucky escape" and said people should be cautious in train stations.
The train pushed the stroller about 130 feet (40 meters) along the tracks before it stopped.
Security video footage released Friday shows the mother looking away for a moment when the stroller suddenly rolls off the edge of a station platform and onto the tracks. The mother panics as she looks back and sees the oncoming train hit the stroller, but the baby boy survived with only minor injuries.
Victoria state Police Sergeant Michael Ferwerda called Thursday's incident a "lucky escape" and said people should be cautious in train stations.
Police bicyclist, pedestrian collide
Via MattarMedia SCHENECTADY - A city bike patrol officer's two-wheeler collided with a pedestrian, sending both men to Ellis Hospital with minor injuries Wednesday night, police said.
In the collision at 7:34 p.m. at State and Clinton streets, a city man, 51, walked into the path of Officer Phillip Feldhaus, police spokesman Sgt. Eric Clifford said. He said the officer was traveling downhill and could not react quickly enough to avoid striking the man.
Feldhaus is assigned to the downtown area. Police are looking into the mishap.
In the collision at 7:34 p.m. at State and Clinton streets, a city man, 51, walked into the path of Officer Phillip Feldhaus, police spokesman Sgt. Eric Clifford said. He said the officer was traveling downhill and could not react quickly enough to avoid striking the man.
Feldhaus is assigned to the downtown area. Police are looking into the mishap.
Police arrest Lake George driver found unconscious behind wheel
Via MattarMedia LAKE GEORGE - Police arrested the driver of a vehicle they say struck construction barricades and left the scene before he was found passed out behind the wheel of his car elsewhere in the village.
Police officers from the Warren County Sheriff's Department found 52-year-old Michael Vittengl of Lake George unconscious in his 2003 Cadillac Escalade on Lower Amherst St. near Duffy's Bar early Friday morning.
Police had been searching for his vehicle after an officer discovered an accident scene on Canada St. near the exit 22 overpass, where Vittengl's vehicle had allegedly struck barricades and a guide rail and left the scenes, said the Sheriff's Department.
After conducting a field sobriety test, police determined Vittengl was intoxicated and arrested him for driving while intoxicated.
He was processed at the Queensbury station and submitted to a breath test, which showed a blood alcohol content level of .16 percent.
Vittengl was ticketed for DWI, driving with a BAC greater than .08 percent, leaving the scene of a property damge accident and operating to the right of a property damage.
Vittengl is scheduled to appear in Lake George Town Court at a later date.
Police officers from the Warren County Sheriff's Department found 52-year-old Michael Vittengl of Lake George unconscious in his 2003 Cadillac Escalade on Lower Amherst St. near Duffy's Bar early Friday morning.
Police had been searching for his vehicle after an officer discovered an accident scene on Canada St. near the exit 22 overpass, where Vittengl's vehicle had allegedly struck barricades and a guide rail and left the scenes, said the Sheriff's Department.
After conducting a field sobriety test, police determined Vittengl was intoxicated and arrested him for driving while intoxicated.
He was processed at the Queensbury station and submitted to a breath test, which showed a blood alcohol content level of .16 percent.
Vittengl was ticketed for DWI, driving with a BAC greater than .08 percent, leaving the scene of a property damge accident and operating to the right of a property damage.
Vittengl is scheduled to appear in Lake George Town Court at a later date.
Vehicle flips over during rush hour accident
Via MattarMedia - Two cars collided around 7:30 Friday morning at the intersection of Plymouth Avenue and Brown Street when one of the drivers didn't stop at the light.
The impact flipped the car being driven by a local teacher on her way to work.
She was taken to the hospital on a backboard, and the other driver was not hurt.
The impact flipped the car being driven by a local teacher on her way to work.
She was taken to the hospital on a backboard, and the other driver was not hurt.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Four teens hurt in Lysander crash; one in critical condition
Via MattarMedia Lysander (WSYR-TV) – Firefighters at the scene of a Wednesday afternoon rollover car crash in Lysander say all four people inside the car were teenagers.
The crash took place shortly after 4:00 p.m. along River Road between Route 31 and Melvin Drive South. One passenger had to be cut out of the car and was taken to University Hospital in critical condition.
The driver and two others were taken to Crouse Hospital with minor injuries.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The crash took place shortly after 4:00 p.m. along River Road between Route 31 and Melvin Drive South. One passenger had to be cut out of the car and was taken to University Hospital in critical condition.
The driver and two others were taken to Crouse Hospital with minor injuries.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Feedback: Vehicle Accidents Involving Deer Prove Costly to Motorists
Via MattarMedia - The number of car-deer accidents is on the rise again in the north country as the animals enter into their mating season.
When a motorist hits a deer, it can end up being a costly accident.
"With today's cars, a lot of the parts, especially the European cars and some of the higher line cars, the parts are very expensive," said Steve Rishe of Rishe's Auto Service.
Car-deer accidents can occur at anytime and anywhere.
Rishe has been busy writing up damage estimates at his Ogdensburg body shop and all are related to collisions between deer and vehicles.
"We've had some vehicles that have come in that have been in deer collisions that have actually been totalled before, depending on the size of the deer and where it hits the car. Airbags are very expensive to replace. Once the airbags deploy, that can determine whether the vehicle is repairable or a total loss," said Rishe.
Officials with the state Department of Environmental Conservation say it's mating season for deer and motorists need to pay even closer attention on the roadways - especially at dusk and dawn.
"In the latter half of October we really start to see deer movement increase - bucks running around looking and does moving as a result," said DEC wildlife biologist Jim Farquhar.
DEC officials say while there are no statistics involving the exact number of car/deer accidents in the north country, there are extra precautions to prevent you from a having a deer crash.
First pay close attention to both sides of the road.
If you see a deer crossing, slow down because the chances are pretty good it's not alone and others will soon follow behind.
When a motorist hits a deer, it can end up being a costly accident.
"With today's cars, a lot of the parts, especially the European cars and some of the higher line cars, the parts are very expensive," said Steve Rishe of Rishe's Auto Service.
Car-deer accidents can occur at anytime and anywhere.
Rishe has been busy writing up damage estimates at his Ogdensburg body shop and all are related to collisions between deer and vehicles.
"We've had some vehicles that have come in that have been in deer collisions that have actually been totalled before, depending on the size of the deer and where it hits the car. Airbags are very expensive to replace. Once the airbags deploy, that can determine whether the vehicle is repairable or a total loss," said Rishe.
Officials with the state Department of Environmental Conservation say it's mating season for deer and motorists need to pay even closer attention on the roadways - especially at dusk and dawn.
"In the latter half of October we really start to see deer movement increase - bucks running around looking and does moving as a result," said DEC wildlife biologist Jim Farquhar.
DEC officials say while there are no statistics involving the exact number of car/deer accidents in the north country, there are extra precautions to prevent you from a having a deer crash.
First pay close attention to both sides of the road.
If you see a deer crossing, slow down because the chances are pretty good it's not alone and others will soon follow behind.
Wrong assumption may have caused crash
Via MattarMedia POMFRET, N.Y. (WIVB) - A wrong assumption may have led to the fatal train accident Saturday in the Chautauqua County Town of Pomfret.
State Police Investigators now say a driver went around the rail crossing's warning gate thinking it was broken, because a slow-moving train had just passed by.
All three people inside the van were killed when they were hit by a second train.
State Police Investigators now say a driver went around the rail crossing's warning gate thinking it was broken, because a slow-moving train had just passed by.
All three people inside the van were killed when they were hit by a second train.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Crack down on drivers using cell phones
Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A State Police crack down is kicking cell phone use to the curb along the thruway.
The blitz comes ahead of a new state law that bans texting behind the wheel.
Captain Michael Nigrelli warns, "There's someone that's looking at a $160 fine."
After day one of Operation Hang Up, New York State Thruway Police, just on the Buffalo stretch handed out 33 tickets for drivers using cell phones.
"Not really sure what people did before cell phones but today, that's what they do, they drive and they talk," said Captain Nigrelli.
Captain Nigrelli let News 4 ride along in an unmarked police SUV and it wasn't hard to catch people.
Because News 4 along for the ride, Captain Nigrelli didn't pull anyone over but would warn them with the siren.
In less than an hour, News 4 pulled up alongside at least six drivers talking while driving.
"This is what I'm talking about. These people are oblivious to what's going around them," he said.
This crack down also comes just weeks before the state imposes a new texting while driving law.
Up till now, you could text but not drive while holding the cell phone to your ear.
Come November 1st, it will be a secondary offense to text and drive, so state police still couldn't pull over people who are obviously texting, unless they have some other violation like weaving in and out of their lane.
"And that's the offense you use to make the stop. Once you make the stop, then you also enforce the texting law," Captain Nigrelli explained.
Even though the state law is a secondary law, a new county law will probably be in effect by December, allowing local police to pull you over for texting as a primary offense.
The blitz comes ahead of a new state law that bans texting behind the wheel.
Captain Michael Nigrelli warns, "There's someone that's looking at a $160 fine."
After day one of Operation Hang Up, New York State Thruway Police, just on the Buffalo stretch handed out 33 tickets for drivers using cell phones.
"Not really sure what people did before cell phones but today, that's what they do, they drive and they talk," said Captain Nigrelli.
Captain Nigrelli let News 4 ride along in an unmarked police SUV and it wasn't hard to catch people.
Because News 4 along for the ride, Captain Nigrelli didn't pull anyone over but would warn them with the siren.
In less than an hour, News 4 pulled up alongside at least six drivers talking while driving.
"This is what I'm talking about. These people are oblivious to what's going around them," he said.
This crack down also comes just weeks before the state imposes a new texting while driving law.
Up till now, you could text but not drive while holding the cell phone to your ear.
Come November 1st, it will be a secondary offense to text and drive, so state police still couldn't pull over people who are obviously texting, unless they have some other violation like weaving in and out of their lane.
"And that's the offense you use to make the stop. Once you make the stop, then you also enforce the texting law," Captain Nigrelli explained.
Even though the state law is a secondary law, a new county law will probably be in effect by December, allowing local police to pull you over for texting as a primary offense.
Hit and run driver in court
Via MattarMedia ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) - A young driver from Williamsville faced arraignment on Tuesday in Orchard Park Town Court.
Police said 19 year old Brandon Mclean was drunk and injured half a dozen people during a series of hit and runs involving a police chase after the Bills game on Sunday.
An Erie County Sheriff's Deputy was among the injured.
Police said 19 year old Brandon Mclean was drunk and injured half a dozen people during a series of hit and runs involving a police chase after the Bills game on Sunday.
An Erie County Sheriff's Deputy was among the injured.
State police car crash sends nine to the hospital
Via MattarMedia NEW BALTIMORE - There are no charges yet in a crash Tuesday morning that sent nine people, most of them state police troopers, to the hospital.
A special operations vehicle carrying 10 troopers collided with a pickup truck before 7 a.m. along Route 9W in New Baltimore, police told CBS 6.
The driver of the truck and eight of the troopers were taken to Albany Medical Center. They’ve all since been released.
The cause of accident is still under investigation.
A special operations vehicle carrying 10 troopers collided with a pickup truck before 7 a.m. along Route 9W in New Baltimore, police told CBS 6.
The driver of the truck and eight of the troopers were taken to Albany Medical Center. They’ve all since been released.
The cause of accident is still under investigation.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Utica man charged after driving off Thruway
Via MattarMedia CANASTOTA - A Utica man was charged with driving while ability impaired by alcohol after his vehicle was found in a ditch off the Thruway near the Canastota exit, according to state troopers in Syracuse.
Kevin Tran, 37, of Conkling Avenue, was arrested following the accident Friday when his blood alcohol content level was found to be 0.07 percent, just under the legal limit of 0.08 percent, troopers said.
He was released on a ticket and is due to appear in Canastota Village Court on Oct. 22.
Kevin Tran, 37, of Conkling Avenue, was arrested following the accident Friday when his blood alcohol content level was found to be 0.07 percent, just under the legal limit of 0.08 percent, troopers said.
He was released on a ticket and is due to appear in Canastota Village Court on Oct. 22.
Thruway lanes closed after tractor-trailer accident
Via MattarMedia NEWSTEAD, N.Y. (AP) - State police say one of the westbound lanes of the Thruway between Rochester and Buffalo has reopened after being shut down following a tractor-trailer jackknifed.
The state police Thruway detail says the truck was blocking both westbound lanes on Interstate 90 in the town of Newstead, 20 miles east of Buffalo. Officials say the accident occurred around 6 a.m. Tuesday between Exit 48A at Pembroke and Exit 49 at Cheektowaga.
Troopers initially expected both lanes to be reopened by 7 a.m.
Traffic was getting around the crash scene on the highway's shoulder but troopers say backups are expected for the start of the morning commute.
There are no reports of injuries.
The state police Thruway detail says the truck was blocking both westbound lanes on Interstate 90 in the town of Newstead, 20 miles east of Buffalo. Officials say the accident occurred around 6 a.m. Tuesday between Exit 48A at Pembroke and Exit 49 at Cheektowaga.
Troopers initially expected both lanes to be reopened by 7 a.m.
Traffic was getting around the crash scene on the highway's shoulder but troopers say backups are expected for the start of the morning commute.
There are no reports of injuries.
Teen driver ticketed in crash
Via MattarMedia Jamesville (WSYR-TV) – A teenage driver has been ticketed for causing a crash Monday evening along 481 South in Jamesville.
Police say Robert Dwyer, 17, of Syracuse, was headed south on Route 481 and was about a mile south of the Jamesville Road exit when he struck an SUV in its rear driver’s side door, causing both vehicles to spin into the median.
Police say Dwyer was speeding at the time of the crash; he was taken to University Hospital with minor injuries. The SUV driver was not hurt.
Dwyer has been ticketed for speeding and an unsafe lane change.
Police say Robert Dwyer, 17, of Syracuse, was headed south on Route 481 and was about a mile south of the Jamesville Road exit when he struck an SUV in its rear driver’s side door, causing both vehicles to spin into the median.
Police say Dwyer was speeding at the time of the crash; he was taken to University Hospital with minor injuries. The SUV driver was not hurt.
Dwyer has been ticketed for speeding and an unsafe lane change.
Truck driver charged with hitting police cruiser
Via MattarMedia COLONIE - A 44-year-old tractor-trailer driver from Michigan was charged with leaving the scene after hitting a Colonie police cruiser, police said.
James Hughes of Farmington Hills faces several charges including felony counts of criminal mischief and reckless endangerment. He also is charged with misdemeanor assault.
At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Investigator Jeffrey Lockart was pulling into the Scottish Inn on Central Avenue with a marked car responding to a report of an annoying person. The cruiser was struck by a tractor-trailer, which then drove off, police said.
The truck, which was carrying three pickup trucks, was later found abandoned at Railroad and Kraft avenues.
Lockart, a six-year veteran of the police force, suffered a back injury. He was treated at Albany Memorial Hospital and released.
James Hughes of Farmington Hills faces several charges including felony counts of criminal mischief and reckless endangerment. He also is charged with misdemeanor assault.
At 7:30 p.m. Friday, Investigator Jeffrey Lockart was pulling into the Scottish Inn on Central Avenue with a marked car responding to a report of an annoying person. The cruiser was struck by a tractor-trailer, which then drove off, police said.
The truck, which was carrying three pickup trucks, was later found abandoned at Railroad and Kraft avenues.
Lockart, a six-year veteran of the police force, suffered a back injury. He was treated at Albany Memorial Hospital and released.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Woman injured in Westmoreland accident
Via MattarMedia WESTMORELAND, N.Y. (WKTV) - Only minor injures for a woman, after an accident on route 5 in Westmoreland.
Sheriff's Deputies say a 21-year old from Fayetteville near Syracuse was involved in the crash.
A flatbed truck had to pull the car out of a ditch. Traffic was backed up for a short time near in the intersection of Dean's Highway.
Right now, it's not clear on how the accident happened.
Sheriff's Deputies say a 21-year old from Fayetteville near Syracuse was involved in the crash.
A flatbed truck had to pull the car out of a ditch. Traffic was backed up for a short time near in the intersection of Dean's Highway.
Right now, it's not clear on how the accident happened.
Hit-run driver suspected in death of bicyclist
Via MattarMedia - A hit-run driver is believed responsible for the death of a bicyclist at about 11:30 p. m. Saturday on Route 5 near Herr Road in the Town of Evans.
Jay B. Murphy, 51, of Evans, died shortly after being struck as he rode or walked his bike, Evans police Lt. Thomas George said.
“The Detective Bureau is out right now with different leads,” George said. “The vehicle was gone on arrival.”
Police believe the vehicle might have front-end damage, he added. Anyone who saw the accident should call police at 549-3600.
Jay B. Murphy, 51, of Evans, died shortly after being struck as he rode or walked his bike, Evans police Lt. Thomas George said.
“The Detective Bureau is out right now with different leads,” George said. “The vehicle was gone on arrival.”
Police believe the vehicle might have front-end damage, he added. Anyone who saw the accident should call police at 549-3600.
Hit-and-run accident after Bills game
Via MattarMedia ORCHARD PARK, NY (WIVB) - Seven people, including four law enforcement officials, were injured in a hit and run accident at the Buffalo Bills game and Brandon McClean of Willamsville is in police custody, charged with DWI among other things.
After the game Orchard Park police received a tip that the driver of a black Jeep Wrangler, was dealing drugs.
Moments later, officers heard the same vehicle hit a security car in the parking lot.
As authorities responded, witnesses say the car hit a Sheriff's deputy on its way to Southwestern Blvd, leaving to a chaotic scene in the parking lot.
"It looked like they were hurt pretty severely. One guy had lost his shoe and when they did get hit, from where we were, we definitely did see one person go at least 4 to 6 feet in the air," said witness Mark Lammerhirt.
"Another man was walking around in circles saying that he had almost lost his leg because the fender flew off the Wrangler and it hit him and when I got up there he just kept saying 'I almost lost my leg the fender hit me'".
The chase ended for 19 year- old McClean less than a mile away when an Orchard Park police officer pinned his car against a flagpole. Police say McClean fought with the officer before authorities took him into custody.
According to a release from police the officers who were injured are back home this morning. News 4 is still trying to find out the conditions of the three pedestrians.
After the game Orchard Park police received a tip that the driver of a black Jeep Wrangler, was dealing drugs.
Moments later, officers heard the same vehicle hit a security car in the parking lot.
As authorities responded, witnesses say the car hit a Sheriff's deputy on its way to Southwestern Blvd, leaving to a chaotic scene in the parking lot.
"It looked like they were hurt pretty severely. One guy had lost his shoe and when they did get hit, from where we were, we definitely did see one person go at least 4 to 6 feet in the air," said witness Mark Lammerhirt.
"Another man was walking around in circles saying that he had almost lost his leg because the fender flew off the Wrangler and it hit him and when I got up there he just kept saying 'I almost lost my leg the fender hit me'".
The chase ended for 19 year- old McClean less than a mile away when an Orchard Park police officer pinned his car against a flagpole. Police say McClean fought with the officer before authorities took him into custody.
According to a release from police the officers who were injured are back home this morning. News 4 is still trying to find out the conditions of the three pedestrians.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Grand Island teen accused of pot possession after crash
Via MattarMedia - A crash on Grand Island late Wednesday night led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man charged with driving while his ability was impaired by drugs, Erie County sheriff’s officials reported.
Jeffrey K. Drew, of Whitehaven Road, was driving through the Grand Island Plaza, when his pickup truck slammed into a concrete block wall, leaving a 4-foot hole in the wall, shortly before 11 p. m., deputies said.
Deputies Mike Haug and Dan Milbrandt found Drew in possession of a small quantity of suspected marijuana, according to police reports.
The deputies, with the assistance of Deputy Darryl DeMari, charged Drew with the driving-while-impaired charge, aggravated unlicensed operation and marijuana possession, sheriff’s officials said.
Jeffrey K. Drew, of Whitehaven Road, was driving through the Grand Island Plaza, when his pickup truck slammed into a concrete block wall, leaving a 4-foot hole in the wall, shortly before 11 p. m., deputies said.
Deputies Mike Haug and Dan Milbrandt found Drew in possession of a small quantity of suspected marijuana, according to police reports.
The deputies, with the assistance of Deputy Darryl DeMari, charged Drew with the driving-while-impaired charge, aggravated unlicensed operation and marijuana possession, sheriff’s officials said.
Friday, October 9, 2009
2 injured in Rome crash
Via MattarMedia ROME - Two people were sent to the hospital today following an accident on Route 26, Oneida County sheriff’s deputies said.
At about 1:57 p.m., Kari M. Guglielmo, 26, of Rome, was attempting to make a left turn off Route 26 as Edward L. Simpson, 65, of Rome, was southbound on Route 26 behind Guglielmo and struck her vehicle, deputies said.
Guglielmo was transported by AmCare Ambulance to Rome Memorial Hospital for neck pain, and a passenger of Simpson’s vehicle, Brandon S. Price, also was transported by AmCare for a head injury, deputies said.
Simpson was issued a ticket for following too closely and is to appear at Rome City Court at a later date, deputies said.
None of the injuries appeared to be life-threatening.
At about 1:57 p.m., Kari M. Guglielmo, 26, of Rome, was attempting to make a left turn off Route 26 as Edward L. Simpson, 65, of Rome, was southbound on Route 26 behind Guglielmo and struck her vehicle, deputies said.
Guglielmo was transported by AmCare Ambulance to Rome Memorial Hospital for neck pain, and a passenger of Simpson’s vehicle, Brandon S. Price, also was transported by AmCare for a head injury, deputies said.
Simpson was issued a ticket for following too closely and is to appear at Rome City Court at a later date, deputies said.
None of the injuries appeared to be life-threatening.
Chain reaction crash in Black Rock
Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - One person was taken to the hospital after a chain reaction crash in Buffalo's Black Rock neighborhood.
A News 4 camera was there just after a truck slammed into a van, then drove though a fence at a used car lot at Niagara and Hertel.
The impact of the crash caused one of the cars to be damaged by the chain link fence poles.
Pat Sarcinelli exclaimed, "Like a freight train was coming through the building! And my only surprise, looking out and seeing the truck through my fence."
One car was totaled and several others were damaged at the dealership.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
A News 4 camera was there just after a truck slammed into a van, then drove though a fence at a used car lot at Niagara and Hertel.
The impact of the crash caused one of the cars to be damaged by the chain link fence poles.
Pat Sarcinelli exclaimed, "Like a freight train was coming through the building! And my only surprise, looking out and seeing the truck through my fence."
One car was totaled and several others were damaged at the dealership.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Grand Island man charged with DWI after accident
Via MattarMedia - A single-vehicle accident on Grand Island late Wednesday night led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man charged with driving while his ability was impaired by drugs, Erie County sheriff's officials reported.
Jeffrey K. Drew, of Whitehaven Road, was driving through the Grand Island Plaza, when his pickup truck slammed into a concrete block wall, leaving a four-foot hole in the wall, shortly before 11 p.m., deputies said.
Deputies Mike Haug and Dan Milbrandt found Drew in possession of a small quantity of suspected marijuana, according to police reports.
The deputies, with the assistance of Deputy Darryl DeMari, charged Drew with the driving while impaired charge, aggravated unlicensed operation and marijuana possession, sheriff's officials said.
Jeffrey K. Drew, of Whitehaven Road, was driving through the Grand Island Plaza, when his pickup truck slammed into a concrete block wall, leaving a four-foot hole in the wall, shortly before 11 p.m., deputies said.
Deputies Mike Haug and Dan Milbrandt found Drew in possession of a small quantity of suspected marijuana, according to police reports.
The deputies, with the assistance of Deputy Darryl DeMari, charged Drew with the driving while impaired charge, aggravated unlicensed operation and marijuana possession, sheriff's officials said.
Taconic wrong-way crash survivor is home from hospital
Via MattarMedia WEST BABYLON - The 5-year-old survivor of a highway crash that killed eight is recovering at his Long Island home after two months in hospitals.
A private investigator who represents the family, Thomas Ruskin, says Bryan Schuler still has "very severe" head injuries.
Bryan's mother, Diane Schuler, drove the wrong way on the Taconic State Parkway north of New York City in July. She died along with Bryan's sister, three cousins, and three Yonkers men in the vehicle she hit.
Schuler's family disputes toxicology findings that she was drunk and high on marijuana.
Co-workers at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration have donated vacation time so that Daniel Schuler will be able to care for his son into November.
A private investigator who represents the family, Thomas Ruskin, says Bryan Schuler still has "very severe" head injuries.
Bryan's mother, Diane Schuler, drove the wrong way on the Taconic State Parkway north of New York City in July. She died along with Bryan's sister, three cousins, and three Yonkers men in the vehicle she hit.
Schuler's family disputes toxicology findings that she was drunk and high on marijuana.
Co-workers at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration have donated vacation time so that Daniel Schuler will be able to care for his son into November.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Boop gets maximum sentence in fatal Wheatland DWI accident
Via MattarMedia - During the trial of Aaron M. Boop on charges that he killed friend Nicholas A. Zajac while driving drunk in Wheatland, jurors were shown graphic photos of Zajac's devastating injuries.
Testimony had to be halted briefly when the photos, displayed on a courtroom monitor, caused several jurors to become physically ill. After deliberations, the jury convicted Boop in Zajac's death.
Handing the maximum penalty of five to 15 years in prison to Boop on Wednesday, Monroe County Court Judge Alex R. Renzi said he was struck by Boop's lack of reaction to the photos that sickened jurors.
"I looked over at you," Renzi said. "It was like you were watching a video game. No remorse, no change of expression. Nothing."
Boop, 20, of Avon, Livingston County, was found guilty last month of first-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, driving while intoxicated and driving without a license because of a previous DWI conviction.
Before he was sentenced, Boop apologized to Zajac's family, blamed a store clerk who sold him beer even though he was underage, and said a long prison term would separate him from his wife and newborn son.
"I didn't mean for this to happen," he said. "They lost their son and I lost mine. My son might not accept me as his father if I'm away for a long time."
But Renzi said he doubted Boop's sincerity.
"I think you only feel sorry for yourself," Renzi said. "You even act like you're sort of a victim here."
Boop lost control of his pickup at Beulah and Vallance roads and hit a tree on Oct. 21, 2008. Zajac was ejected and died at Strong Memorial Hospital.
Boop had a blood-alcohol content of 0.20 percent — more than twice the level needed for a DWI charge.
Jurors rejected Boop's claim that Zajac, 16, of Wheatland was driving.
Assistant District Attorney Perry Duckles said evidence presented to the jury, including Boop's DNA on the driver's airbag, firmly established that Boop was driving.
"The proof of Mr. Boop's operation was, in my opinion, overwhelming," Duckles said.
Boop's learner's permit was revoked after he was convicted of driving drunk in Genesee County in 2006. He was given youthful offender status and put on probation to deal with a drinking problem.
"You had a chance to change your life and you didn't do it," Renzi told him.
Boop's family declined to comment outside court after the sentencing. Zajac's father, Bill Zajac, said he's uncertain how to take Boop's apology.
"I hope he's sorry," he said. "I really do hope he's sorry. I hope his life turns (around) in the long run."
Testimony had to be halted briefly when the photos, displayed on a courtroom monitor, caused several jurors to become physically ill. After deliberations, the jury convicted Boop in Zajac's death.
Handing the maximum penalty of five to 15 years in prison to Boop on Wednesday, Monroe County Court Judge Alex R. Renzi said he was struck by Boop's lack of reaction to the photos that sickened jurors.
"I looked over at you," Renzi said. "It was like you were watching a video game. No remorse, no change of expression. Nothing."
Boop, 20, of Avon, Livingston County, was found guilty last month of first-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, driving while intoxicated and driving without a license because of a previous DWI conviction.
Before he was sentenced, Boop apologized to Zajac's family, blamed a store clerk who sold him beer even though he was underage, and said a long prison term would separate him from his wife and newborn son.
"I didn't mean for this to happen," he said. "They lost their son and I lost mine. My son might not accept me as his father if I'm away for a long time."
But Renzi said he doubted Boop's sincerity.
"I think you only feel sorry for yourself," Renzi said. "You even act like you're sort of a victim here."
Boop lost control of his pickup at Beulah and Vallance roads and hit a tree on Oct. 21, 2008. Zajac was ejected and died at Strong Memorial Hospital.
Boop had a blood-alcohol content of 0.20 percent — more than twice the level needed for a DWI charge.
Jurors rejected Boop's claim that Zajac, 16, of Wheatland was driving.
Assistant District Attorney Perry Duckles said evidence presented to the jury, including Boop's DNA on the driver's airbag, firmly established that Boop was driving.
"The proof of Mr. Boop's operation was, in my opinion, overwhelming," Duckles said.
Boop's learner's permit was revoked after he was convicted of driving drunk in Genesee County in 2006. He was given youthful offender status and put on probation to deal with a drinking problem.
"You had a chance to change your life and you didn't do it," Renzi told him.
Boop's family declined to comment outside court after the sentencing. Zajac's father, Bill Zajac, said he's uncertain how to take Boop's apology.
"I hope he's sorry," he said. "I really do hope he's sorry. I hope his life turns (around) in the long run."
Spa crash recalls a clash
Via MattarMedia SARATOGA SPRINGS - The city police department was abruptly confronted with a ghost from its past Wednesday when Erin Dreyer, a controversial figure once in charge of the department, rear-ended Officer Thomas Sartin's patrol car.
The crash occurred on Route 9, just south of Avenue of the Pines where the road is divided. Sartin had his emergency lights on and was responding to a car crash in the opposite lane when Dreyer rear-ended the police car. Dreyer's Mazda 6 was heavily damaged, but she was not injured, according to police.
The patrol car did not appear as seriously damaged at the scene, but Sartin suffered head and neck injuries and was taken by ambulance to Saratoga Hospital. He was treated and released, and is expected to miss several days work while he recovers.
In 2006 and 2007, Dreyer, 37, was constantly in the news as her brief tenure as the city's deputy commissioner of public safety fell apart in a morass of lawsuits. In 2005 and 2006, Chief Edward Moore and his former assistant, James Cornick, sued Dreyer in federal court, accusing her of violating their civil rights by harassing them and trying to force them out of the police department.
The city spent more than $34,000 defending Dreyer and when her boss, Commissioner Tom Curley, would not fire her, the City Council cut the deputy position.
The city settled with Moore and Cornick in December 2007. Each man was paid $65,000.
In the years since, Dreyer has kept a low profile, although her sister, Laura Emanation, still works for the city police department. She filed a discrimination complaint with the state Division of Human Rights and in September the City Council settled with her for $5,000.
Dreyer's car was registered to an Illinois-based company that leases fleets of cars to companies.
The crash occurred on Route 9, just south of Avenue of the Pines where the road is divided. Sartin had his emergency lights on and was responding to a car crash in the opposite lane when Dreyer rear-ended the police car. Dreyer's Mazda 6 was heavily damaged, but she was not injured, according to police.
The patrol car did not appear as seriously damaged at the scene, but Sartin suffered head and neck injuries and was taken by ambulance to Saratoga Hospital. He was treated and released, and is expected to miss several days work while he recovers.
In 2006 and 2007, Dreyer, 37, was constantly in the news as her brief tenure as the city's deputy commissioner of public safety fell apart in a morass of lawsuits. In 2005 and 2006, Chief Edward Moore and his former assistant, James Cornick, sued Dreyer in federal court, accusing her of violating their civil rights by harassing them and trying to force them out of the police department.
The city spent more than $34,000 defending Dreyer and when her boss, Commissioner Tom Curley, would not fire her, the City Council cut the deputy position.
The city settled with Moore and Cornick in December 2007. Each man was paid $65,000.
In the years since, Dreyer has kept a low profile, although her sister, Laura Emanation, still works for the city police department. She filed a discrimination complaint with the state Division of Human Rights and in September the City Council settled with her for $5,000.
Dreyer's car was registered to an Illinois-based company that leases fleets of cars to companies.
Guilty plea in fatal crash with officer
Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A Town of Boston man now awaits his punishment, after admitting he was drunk when he struck and killed an off-duty Buffalo Police officer this summer.
It's been three months, but the wounds are still fresh for the the family of Buffalo Police officer Jose Colon. They didn't want to talk as they left the courtroom, Wednesday afternoon.
The 39-year-old officer was killed in July when his SUV was struck on the 190 in South Buffalo.
It happened early in the morning when the officer when heading home from work.
"This young man from the day it happened wanted to accept responsibility for this I mean, he really feels bad, it was an accident," said Defense Attorney Andrew LoTempio.
Wednesday, 22-year-old Raymond Jamison Jr. admitted to being drunk behind the wheel that morning of the accident.
He pled guilty to criminally negligent homicide, two charges of vehicular assault for injuring two passengers in his car, and DWI.
LoTempio said, "Unfortunately, this could happen to just about anybody who goes out on a Friday or Saturday night and drinks too much."
LoTempio says that Jamison is undergoing alcohol counseling following the incident.
"Actually there's reason to believe the accident might have happened regardless of the alcohol," LoTempio added.
But Raymond Jamison is taking full responsibility.
He'll be sentenced in January and could face up to four years behind bars.
It's been three months, but the wounds are still fresh for the the family of Buffalo Police officer Jose Colon. They didn't want to talk as they left the courtroom, Wednesday afternoon.
The 39-year-old officer was killed in July when his SUV was struck on the 190 in South Buffalo.
It happened early in the morning when the officer when heading home from work.
"This young man from the day it happened wanted to accept responsibility for this I mean, he really feels bad, it was an accident," said Defense Attorney Andrew LoTempio.
Wednesday, 22-year-old Raymond Jamison Jr. admitted to being drunk behind the wheel that morning of the accident.
He pled guilty to criminally negligent homicide, two charges of vehicular assault for injuring two passengers in his car, and DWI.
LoTempio said, "Unfortunately, this could happen to just about anybody who goes out on a Friday or Saturday night and drinks too much."
LoTempio says that Jamison is undergoing alcohol counseling following the incident.
"Actually there's reason to believe the accident might have happened regardless of the alcohol," LoTempio added.
But Raymond Jamison is taking full responsibility.
He'll be sentenced in January and could face up to four years behind bars.
Plan to lower speed limit at crash site
Via MattarMedia CAMBRIA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Niagara County is making plans to lower the speed limit near the scene of a crash that claimed two lives.
Eric Antoncich,19, and his 17-year old passenger Brendan Christy were killed when their car slammed into a tree on Church Road, in the Town of Cambria last week.
Sheriff's Deputies believe speed was a major factor in the tragedy.
Eric Antoncich,19, and his 17-year old passenger Brendan Christy were killed when their car slammed into a tree on Church Road, in the Town of Cambria last week.
Sheriff's Deputies believe speed was a major factor in the tragedy.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Niagara County deputies get lifesaving tool for crashes
Via MattarMedia - The rescue of a woman in a fiery crash a few months ago has led to the equipping of first responders in the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office with a tiny lifesaver called ResQMe.
ResQMe—about the size of a finger and designed to be attached to a key chain — can shatter a window with the help of a tiny attached hammer. It also features a small knife capable of cutting a seat belt.
On Aug. 29, Deputy Roger Schreader, who also serves as chief of the Cambria Fire Department, had little time to maneuver as he responded to a woman trapped in a vehicle that was on fire. But he was able to punch out a window in the vehicle using a large flashlight and pull the woman to safety. Moments after she was freed, the vehicle was engulfed in flames.
Chief Deputy Steven Preisch said that after that incident, officials realized that most deputies don’t carry heavy flashlights or knives on their utility belts anymore. He said he was contacted by a friend, a trooper in another state who saw Schreader’s story online in The Buffalo News and told him about ResQMe.
“We looked at each other after this happened and said this is something we have to look at,” Preisch said. “I was skeptical at first, but we tested it, and it worked great. It’s even designed to go underwater.”
“It takes virtually no effort to pop the window,” Administrative Capt. Michael J. Filicetti said as he tried the device.
Preisch said he ordered 70 of them for the uniform division through Gui’s Lumber owner Kurt Villani who sold them to the sheriff’s office at cost and donated $200 to defray the cost.
“He said he was very happy to do it and it was for a good cause,” Preisch said.
Sheriff James R. Voutour said the lifesavers cost his department $380, and deputies plan to carry them whether on duty or off duty.
“It’s one extra tool for our first responders and gives us the extra edge,” he said. “How often do you hear about accidents and hear about firemen who were driving by or nurses who were driving by and were able to help someone? Police officers are in their cars a lot, too. Rarely are their fiery crashes, but even if it saves one life in 10 years, it will be worth it.”
ResQMe—about the size of a finger and designed to be attached to a key chain — can shatter a window with the help of a tiny attached hammer. It also features a small knife capable of cutting a seat belt.
On Aug. 29, Deputy Roger Schreader, who also serves as chief of the Cambria Fire Department, had little time to maneuver as he responded to a woman trapped in a vehicle that was on fire. But he was able to punch out a window in the vehicle using a large flashlight and pull the woman to safety. Moments after she was freed, the vehicle was engulfed in flames.
Chief Deputy Steven Preisch said that after that incident, officials realized that most deputies don’t carry heavy flashlights or knives on their utility belts anymore. He said he was contacted by a friend, a trooper in another state who saw Schreader’s story online in The Buffalo News and told him about ResQMe.
“We looked at each other after this happened and said this is something we have to look at,” Preisch said. “I was skeptical at first, but we tested it, and it worked great. It’s even designed to go underwater.”
“It takes virtually no effort to pop the window,” Administrative Capt. Michael J. Filicetti said as he tried the device.
Preisch said he ordered 70 of them for the uniform division through Gui’s Lumber owner Kurt Villani who sold them to the sheriff’s office at cost and donated $200 to defray the cost.
“He said he was very happy to do it and it was for a good cause,” Preisch said.
Sheriff James R. Voutour said the lifesavers cost his department $380, and deputies plan to carry them whether on duty or off duty.
“It’s one extra tool for our first responders and gives us the extra edge,” he said. “How often do you hear about accidents and hear about firemen who were driving by or nurses who were driving by and were able to help someone? Police officers are in their cars a lot, too. Rarely are their fiery crashes, but even if it saves one life in 10 years, it will be worth it.”
DWI and endangering child’s welfare charged
Via MattarMedia NIAGARA FALLS - A 29th Street man was charged with resisting arrest and endangering the welfare of a child Monday night after he was pulled over for drunken driving, police said.
Police stopped a vehicle driven by James M. Rayford, 38, just after 11 p. m. in an alley in the 600 block of 28th Street. Rayford, police said, had his license suspended on five previous occasions and was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation.
He also was charged with driving while intoxicated, criminal contempt (for violating an order of protection), obstructing governmental administration and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.
Police said he refused to stop for police until he reached his home and was driving with a baby in the car at the time. Police said they used a Taser and a baton to subdue Rayford, who was handcuffed. He was not injured, they said.
Police stopped a vehicle driven by James M. Rayford, 38, just after 11 p. m. in an alley in the 600 block of 28th Street. Rayford, police said, had his license suspended on five previous occasions and was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation.
He also was charged with driving while intoxicated, criminal contempt (for violating an order of protection), obstructing governmental administration and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.
Police said he refused to stop for police until he reached his home and was driving with a baby in the car at the time. Police said they used a Taser and a baton to subdue Rayford, who was handcuffed. He was not injured, they said.
Fatal Crash, School Pushes For Lower Speed Limit
Via MattarMedia - The Principal of St. Peter Lutheran School in Cambria wants to reduce the speed limit from 45 to 25 on Church Road.
Just last week, speeding was a major factor in the deaths of 19 year old Eric Antoncich and 17 year old Brenden Christy, when their car smashed into a tree after they failed to negotiate the curve.
The school is directly across the street from the scene and Principal Kathleen Nagel says enough is enough.
Just last week, speeding was a major factor in the deaths of 19 year old Eric Antoncich and 17 year old Brenden Christy, when their car smashed into a tree after they failed to negotiate the curve.
The school is directly across the street from the scene and Principal Kathleen Nagel says enough is enough.
Guilfoyle Ambulance Crashes, 2 EMTS Rushed To Hospital
Via MattarMedia - Two emergency medical technicians had to be rescued Tuesday morning after their ambulance crashed - trapping them inside.
The accident happened shortly after 8 a.m. on State Route 37 in the town of Theresa.
Police said the driver of the Guilfoyle ambulance was headed south when he crossed over the center line.
The ambulance struck a tree and tipped onto the driver's side.
No patients were inside the ambulance.
Firefighters and rescue workers pulled the victims out of the ambulance through the back door.
Both were taken to Samaritan Medical Center, where they were treated and released.
"We're grateful they're okay," said David Sherman, general manager of Guilfoyle Ambulance Service.
Sherman identified the driver of the ambulance as 20 year old Ryan LaFex of Cape Vincent and the passenger as 21 year old Paula Littlefield of Watertown.
He said the two were returning from a transport when the accident occurred.
Sherman said Guilfoyle is working with state police in investigating how the ambulance crashed.
He said the accident reduces Guilfoyle's fleet of ambulances to 11, but it shouldn't hinder day to day operations.
Sherman said the ambulance involved in the crash costs somewhere between $60,000 and $70,000.
He said Guilfoyle is working with its insurance company to replace the vehicle.
Sherman also expressed his appreciation to the emergency personnel who responded to the scene of the accident.
The accident happened shortly after 8 a.m. on State Route 37 in the town of Theresa.
Police said the driver of the Guilfoyle ambulance was headed south when he crossed over the center line.
The ambulance struck a tree and tipped onto the driver's side.
No patients were inside the ambulance.
Firefighters and rescue workers pulled the victims out of the ambulance through the back door.
Both were taken to Samaritan Medical Center, where they were treated and released.
"We're grateful they're okay," said David Sherman, general manager of Guilfoyle Ambulance Service.
Sherman identified the driver of the ambulance as 20 year old Ryan LaFex of Cape Vincent and the passenger as 21 year old Paula Littlefield of Watertown.
He said the two were returning from a transport when the accident occurred.
Sherman said Guilfoyle is working with state police in investigating how the ambulance crashed.
He said the accident reduces Guilfoyle's fleet of ambulances to 11, but it shouldn't hinder day to day operations.
Sherman said the ambulance involved in the crash costs somewhere between $60,000 and $70,000.
He said Guilfoyle is working with its insurance company to replace the vehicle.
Sherman also expressed his appreciation to the emergency personnel who responded to the scene of the accident.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Woman rescued nearly 40 hours after Warren County car crash
Via MattarMedia WARRENSBURG - A 23-year-old woman is in critical condition after she spent nearly 40 hours in her wrecked car after it crashed off a road in the Adirondacks.
State police say a relative found Brittany Lafoy's vehicle late Sunday night in the woods off Route 9 in Warrensburg.
Police say she was driving home from a bar when she apparently went off the road around 2 a.m. Saturday.
State police used a helicopter to search for Lafoy after she was reported missing Saturday morning. She wasn't found until a relative spotted the vehicle in a heavily wooded area along the road.
State police say a relative found Brittany Lafoy's vehicle late Sunday night in the woods off Route 9 in Warrensburg.
Police say she was driving home from a bar when she apparently went off the road around 2 a.m. Saturday.
State police used a helicopter to search for Lafoy after she was reported missing Saturday morning. She wasn't found until a relative spotted the vehicle in a heavily wooded area along the road.
Alden man charged with felony DWI
Via MattarMedia - An Alden man has been charged with felony driving while intoxicated following an accident on Genesee Street in the Town of Alden on Monday night, Erie County sheriff's officials said.
Deputy Simon Biegasiewicz, responding to the 911 call of the accident at about 8:30 p.m., charged Gene Norton, 63, with DWI and several traffic infractions.
The DWI charge is a felony because of a previous drunken-driving conviction, according to sheriff's officials. Deputies also said that Norton refused to submit to a breath test.
He was sent to the Erie County Holding Center without bail.
Deputy Simon Biegasiewicz, responding to the 911 call of the accident at about 8:30 p.m., charged Gene Norton, 63, with DWI and several traffic infractions.
The DWI charge is a felony because of a previous drunken-driving conviction, according to sheriff's officials. Deputies also said that Norton refused to submit to a breath test.
He was sent to the Erie County Holding Center without bail.
Speed seen as factor in boat crash
Via MattarMedia WANTAGH - The operator of a 40-foot powerboat was one of three people killed when his boat ran aground and crashed in marshland off Long Island, authorities said.
Boat operator George Canni, 65, his 46-year-old wife, Theresa Maniaci-Canni, and 50-year-old Joseph Sugamele, of Massapequa, died in Sunday night's crash. Police did not identify the four survivors, who remain hospitalized in critical condition.
All seven occupants were ejected from the 40-foot speedboat, called Uncanni, on Sunday night. Rescuers found the victims in marshland just south of the hamlet of Wantagh. None of the victims were wearing life jackets, authorities said.
The boat's builder, Joe Logiudice, told Newsday he built the boat about 10 years ago and sold it to Canni, a friend of 40 years. He described Canni as a "meticulous and careful" boater, who knew the local waterways.
Police said homicide detectives were looking at whether alcohol, debris in the water or mechanical failure may have contributed to the crash.
"To hit the marsh and run up on top of it like that, you would have to be going at a pretty good rate of speed," Nassau County police Det. Lt. Kevin Smith told Newsday in Monday editions.
Investigators said they will reconstruct the accident to determine the boat's speed.
Police said witnesses reported the boat was speeding under a bridge on Wantagh Parkway, which links Long Island to Jones Beach. The speed limit at the bridge is 5 miles-an-hour.
Boat operator George Canni, 65, his 46-year-old wife, Theresa Maniaci-Canni, and 50-year-old Joseph Sugamele, of Massapequa, died in Sunday night's crash. Police did not identify the four survivors, who remain hospitalized in critical condition.
All seven occupants were ejected from the 40-foot speedboat, called Uncanni, on Sunday night. Rescuers found the victims in marshland just south of the hamlet of Wantagh. None of the victims were wearing life jackets, authorities said.
The boat's builder, Joe Logiudice, told Newsday he built the boat about 10 years ago and sold it to Canni, a friend of 40 years. He described Canni as a "meticulous and careful" boater, who knew the local waterways.
Police said homicide detectives were looking at whether alcohol, debris in the water or mechanical failure may have contributed to the crash.
"To hit the marsh and run up on top of it like that, you would have to be going at a pretty good rate of speed," Nassau County police Det. Lt. Kevin Smith told Newsday in Monday editions.
Investigators said they will reconstruct the accident to determine the boat's speed.
Police said witnesses reported the boat was speeding under a bridge on Wantagh Parkway, which links Long Island to Jones Beach. The speed limit at the bridge is 5 miles-an-hour.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Men charged with DWI in Dunkirk and Ripley
Via MattarMedia MAYVILLE—Chautauqua County sheriff’s deputies arrested two men on drunken driving charges late Saturday.
Richard C. Miller Jr., 42, of Forestville, was charged with DWI and speeding at about 10:40 p. m. on South Roberts Road in the Town of Dunkirk, the Sheriff’s Office reported.
Karl T. Kinal, 22, of Findley Lake, was charged with aggravated DWI, speeding and a broken windshield at 11:40 p. m. on Route 76 in the Town of Ripley. Both men were issued appearance tickets.
Richard C. Miller Jr., 42, of Forestville, was charged with DWI and speeding at about 10:40 p. m. on South Roberts Road in the Town of Dunkirk, the Sheriff’s Office reported.
Karl T. Kinal, 22, of Findley Lake, was charged with aggravated DWI, speeding and a broken windshield at 11:40 p. m. on Route 76 in the Town of Ripley. Both men were issued appearance tickets.
Drunken driving charged after four-car crash
Via MattarMedia NIAGARA FALLS - Michael A. Zewin, 33, of 70th Street, was charged with driving while intoxicated after driving the wrong way down a one-way street and causing a four-car crash Saturday night.
Zewin was arrested just after 10:30 p. m. following the incident on 18th Street, just south of Ferry Avenue, according to a city police report.
Zewin, who refused to take a breath test, also was charged with driving while ability impaired and driving the wrong way on a one-way street.
Police did not say whether the vehicles Zewin struck were parked or moving, or whether anyone was injured.
Zewin was arrested just after 10:30 p. m. following the incident on 18th Street, just south of Ferry Avenue, according to a city police report.
Zewin, who refused to take a breath test, also was charged with driving while ability impaired and driving the wrong way on a one-way street.
Police did not say whether the vehicles Zewin struck were parked or moving, or whether anyone was injured.
Fighting couple injured after car flips on Route 233
Via MattarMedia WESTMORELAND - A teenage male and his girlfriend were injured after the couple got in a fight while driving and their car flipped onto another vehicle, state police said.
Albina Tursic, 21, grabbed the steering wheel and jerked it to the right while her boyfriend, Manuel Nieves, 19 was driving on Route 233, police said.
The vehicle exited the roadway striking an embankment before becoming airborne and landing on an unattended pickup truck parked on a front lawn, police said.
Nieves of Chittenango and Tursic of Syracuse were transported to Faxton-St. Luke’s Hospital, St. Luke’s campus, for injuries not thought to be life threatening, police said.
No tickets have been issued. The investigation is continuing, police said.
Albina Tursic, 21, grabbed the steering wheel and jerked it to the right while her boyfriend, Manuel Nieves, 19 was driving on Route 233, police said.
The vehicle exited the roadway striking an embankment before becoming airborne and landing on an unattended pickup truck parked on a front lawn, police said.
Nieves of Chittenango and Tursic of Syracuse were transported to Faxton-St. Luke’s Hospital, St. Luke’s campus, for injuries not thought to be life threatening, police said.
No tickets have been issued. The investigation is continuing, police said.
Man hurt in ATV accident
Via MattarMedia BOONVILLE - A Little Falls man was injured shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday when he was thrown from the all-terrain vehicle he was riding, Oneida County sheriff’s deputies said.
Mark S. Samways, 56, was operating a borrowed ATV on private property at the end of Big Ed’s Road when he placed his foot on the ground in an attempt to steady the vehicle, Deputy Craig Stockhauser said.
When Samways did so, his foot and clothing became entangled in the rear wheel and he was thrown from the ATV, Stockhauser said.
The Boonville Fire Department rescued Samways, who was in the woods with a broken ankle and left leg pain, Stockhauser said.
He was treated at the scene and then transported to St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, Stockhauser said.
No citations were issued.
Mark S. Samways, 56, was operating a borrowed ATV on private property at the end of Big Ed’s Road when he placed his foot on the ground in an attempt to steady the vehicle, Deputy Craig Stockhauser said.
When Samways did so, his foot and clothing became entangled in the rear wheel and he was thrown from the ATV, Stockhauser said.
The Boonville Fire Department rescued Samways, who was in the woods with a broken ankle and left leg pain, Stockhauser said.
He was treated at the scene and then transported to St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, Stockhauser said.
No citations were issued.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Man Charged After Running Over A Pedestrian
Via MattarMedia Jamestown, NY (WKBW) - The Jamestown Police tell Eyewitness News that a vehicle operated by Jason A. Huckelbery struck a male subject who was lying in the road in the City of Jamestown earlier this morning.
The vehicle drove over the man's head causing serious injury. The incident was witnessed by a uniformed patrol officer who had recently arrived on scene.
The victim was listed in guarded condition at last update, and Mr. Huckelbery was determined to be impaired. Hucklebery was transported to city jail for processing and further testing, and may face additional charges.
The vehicle drove over the man's head causing serious injury. The incident was witnessed by a uniformed patrol officer who had recently arrived on scene.
The victim was listed in guarded condition at last update, and Mr. Huckelbery was determined to be impaired. Hucklebery was transported to city jail for processing and further testing, and may face additional charges.
Friday, October 2, 2009
All lanes now open following Thruway crash
Via MattarMedia ROTTERDAM - A westbound lane of the Thruway has been reopened a day after two tractor-trailers collided, spilling one of the rigs' cargo of boxed apples across the highway.
Troopers say the left westbound lane on Interstate 90 was reopened around 1 a.m. Friday, nearly 22 hours after the crash occurred in the town of Rotterdam.
The right lane reopened around 8:45 a.m. Thursday.
Police say a FedEx tandem tractor-trailer hit a concrete barrier along the right shoulder after the driver fell asleep. The rear trailer broke loose and rolled over in the lane, where it was hit by a truck hauling apples.
The second truck also rolled over, spilling its cargo. Troopers say the driver of the apple truck suffered minor injuries.
Troopers say the left westbound lane on Interstate 90 was reopened around 1 a.m. Friday, nearly 22 hours after the crash occurred in the town of Rotterdam.
The right lane reopened around 8:45 a.m. Thursday.
Police say a FedEx tandem tractor-trailer hit a concrete barrier along the right shoulder after the driver fell asleep. The rear trailer broke loose and rolled over in the lane, where it was hit by a truck hauling apples.
The second truck also rolled over, spilling its cargo. Troopers say the driver of the apple truck suffered minor injuries.
Driver, 2 others charged in Lockport traffic stop
Via MattarMedia LOCKPORT—Three people were charged following a traffic violation on Genesee Street early Wednesday after Lockport police found an open container of alcohol in their vehicle.
Police charged the driver, Akih B. Fountain, 25, of East Avenue, with aggravated unlicensed operation, failure to signal and equipment violations when he was stopped at 1:45 a. m. and was found with a suspended license.
Kyone Jones, 29, of East Avenue, was found with an open container of alcohol, according to police, and refused police orders.
Chara S. Reed, 28, of Colvin Boulevard, Town of Tonawanda, was found with a pill in an unmarked container and charged with seventh-degree possession of a controlled substance.
Police charged the driver, Akih B. Fountain, 25, of East Avenue, with aggravated unlicensed operation, failure to signal and equipment violations when he was stopped at 1:45 a. m. and was found with a suspended license.
Kyone Jones, 29, of East Avenue, was found with an open container of alcohol, according to police, and refused police orders.
Chara S. Reed, 28, of Colvin Boulevard, Town of Tonawanda, was found with a pill in an unmarked container and charged with seventh-degree possession of a controlled substance.
Bus driver admits to drunk driving
Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - An Alleghany County woman who was trusted to drive dozens of students back and forth to school has admitted being drunk behind the wheel.
A former bus driver for the Alfred Almond School District admits she was driving so erratically while under the influence that students were forced to jump out the emergency exit.
55 year old, Martha Thompson pleaded not guilty to more than 74 charges including DWI, reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child.
Back in May, Thompson was driving more than three dozen students ages 5 to 15 home from school with a blood alcohol content of .15.
That's almost twice the legal limit and almost eight times the limit for a driver with a commercial license.
The Alfred Almond School Board accepted her resignation in June.
Thompson, a wife and mother is also the assessor for the Town of Andover.
She faces weekends in jail for six months, six months ankle bracelet, five years probation, a $1,000 fine, license taken away for two years and alcohol treatment required.
She could go to state prison if she violates her probation.
Two kids are in counseling from the incident.
A former bus driver for the Alfred Almond School District admits she was driving so erratically while under the influence that students were forced to jump out the emergency exit.
55 year old, Martha Thompson pleaded not guilty to more than 74 charges including DWI, reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child.
Back in May, Thompson was driving more than three dozen students ages 5 to 15 home from school with a blood alcohol content of .15.
That's almost twice the legal limit and almost eight times the limit for a driver with a commercial license.
The Alfred Almond School Board accepted her resignation in June.
Thompson, a wife and mother is also the assessor for the Town of Andover.
She faces weekends in jail for six months, six months ankle bracelet, five years probation, a $1,000 fine, license taken away for two years and alcohol treatment required.
She could go to state prison if she violates her probation.
Two kids are in counseling from the incident.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Driver in crash left license plate behind
Via MattarMedia - A motorist who ran over a mailbox and knocked down a Route 249 sign in North Collins on Tuesday night left a calling card when he fled—his license plate.
Mark A. Smutek, of Eagle Crest Drive, was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to keep right and marijuana possession, police said.
Deputies responding to Sisson Highway shortly after 9:45 p. m. Tuesday found the plate, which had broken off. Authorities said Deputies Chris Parisi and George Avery stopped the vehicle in the Eagle Crest area of Springville and found about 10 grams of marijuana.
Mark A. Smutek, of Eagle Crest Drive, was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to keep right and marijuana possession, police said.
Deputies responding to Sisson Highway shortly after 9:45 p. m. Tuesday found the plate, which had broken off. Authorities said Deputies Chris Parisi and George Avery stopped the vehicle in the Eagle Crest area of Springville and found about 10 grams of marijuana.
DWI count after crash on Northway
Via MattarMedia QUEENSBURY - A Hudson Falls man was charged with drunken driving after rolling his Jeep in the Northway's northbound lanes between exits 19 and 20 at about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday, Warren County sheriff's deputies said.
Deputies said Damion A. Parmelee, 30, told them he swerved to avoid hitting a deer. Parmelee's blood alcohol level was 0.13, deputies said. He was released and ordered to return to Queensbury Town Court at a later date.
Deputies said Damion A. Parmelee, 30, told them he swerved to avoid hitting a deer. Parmelee's blood alcohol level was 0.13, deputies said. He was released and ordered to return to Queensbury Town Court at a later date.
Two crashes on Thruway cause lane closures
Via MattarMedia CAPITAL REGION, N.Y. - Crews are on the scene right now of two crashes on both sides of the Thruway this morning. Right now, all lanes heading eastbound on I-90 between exit 27 and 26 are closed after a trailer broke loose from a truck and hit another car.
Also, only one lane is open right now heading westbound between 26 and 27 because of another crash nearby.
We'll keep you posted as we learn new details.
Also, only one lane is open right now heading westbound between 26 and 27 because of another crash nearby.
We'll keep you posted as we learn new details.
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