80-year-old Vietnam veteran fatally injured by stolen car outside granddaughter’s school in Long Island.
An 80-year-old Vietnam War veteran, Peter Morris, tragically lost his life following a collision involving a stolen vehicle in Long Island. The incident occurred on Friday around noon, as Morris was exiting Woodward Parkway Elementary School, where he had attended a ceremony honoring veterans.
According to the Nassau County police, the victim, a resident of South Farmingdale, was struck by a 2013 Nissan that was reported stolen. When the vehicle hit Morris, it propelled his own SUV backward onto the school grounds, causing severe injuries. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The driver of the stolen Nissan, identified as 24-year-old Randy Colon from Hicksville, fled the scene on foot. Law enforcement authorities launched an immediate search and apprehended Colon, who faces multiple charges including manslaughter, grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, and leaving the scene of an incident resulting in death. He is scheduled for arraignment, with details regarding the timing of proceedings still forthcoming.
This incident has left the community reeling, as expressed by longtime resident Tony Ferrara, who described it as the most severe accident he has witnessed in his 50 years living in the area. The sudden loss of Morris, who had recently suffered the passing of his wife, adds to the tragedy surrounding this event. Family members shared that Morris had been looking forward to a planned trip to Disney World with his children and grandchildren, making the loss even more poignant.
The investigation into the incident continues, with authorities focusing on the events leading up to the collision to gather more information. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding vehicle theft and its devastating impact on communities, particularly involving vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
As the community mourns the loss of Peter Morris, it underscores the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures to address the growing issue of stolen vehicles and public safety. Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds and legal processes proceed.
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