Eastbound Southern State Parkway fatal crash victim identified

A 75-year-old man from Holbrook died at the scene of a multi-vehicle accident that closed the area Monday afternoon, according to officials.

News 12 Staff

Jul 12, 2021, 9:15 PM

Updated 1,228 days ago

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A 75-year-old man from Holbrook died at the scene of a multi-vehicle accident that closed the area Monday afternoon, according to officials.
Police say the accident happened shortly after 3:15 p.m. and claimed the life of Richard A. Riggs.
According to authorities, a white Jeep Grand Cherokee and Range Rover were traveling eastbound on the Southern State Parkway east of exit 38 operating erratically. They say the Jeep and the Range Rover attempted to pass in between two vehicles, a Toyota Prius and a Mitsubishi Outlander, which caused a collision. Officials say the collision resulted in the Range Rover exiting the roadway onto the right shoulder and into the tree line. The Mitsubishi Outlander lost control, struck a tree and overturned, coming to rest on the right shoulder. The Toyota Prius struck the cement jersey barrier coming to rest in the left lane, east of the scene. Police say the two occupants of the Range Rover were witnessed being picked up by the white Jeep and fled the scene. Officials later determined the Range Rover was stolen.
A photo from the scene appeared to show one of the vehicles completely overturned.
Viewers who witnessed the crashed commented our Facebook page their condolences.
“I passed this going westbound," said witness Dara Morgen. "It was horrific!!!! Cars everywhere and covered with hundreds of Amazon boxes all over three lanes. I’ve never seen anything like This. The pain I felt in my heart after seeing what I saw tonight is unimaginable. It was so sad. My heartfelt condolences and prayers to everyone involved and their families.”
News 12 spotted cars opting to take side roads to avoid the area, along with vehicles turning around directly on the parkway to avoid the congestion.
State Police are asking witnesses and those with information to reach out to them at 631-756-3300.
News 12 contacted Amazon to find out more information on the scattered boxes, we have yet to hear back.