Police: Port Washington Schools superintendent charged with DWI; seriously injured motorcyclist
Michael Hynes is accused of driving drunk and seriously injuring a motorcyclist in a crash in Sayville.
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Michael Hynes, the outgoing Port Washington Schools superintendent, was arrested Sunday, accused of driving drunk and seriously injuring a motorcyclist in a crash in Sayville.
According to police, Hynes was driving a Honda Civic northbound on Railroad Avenue when he attempted to turn left onto Depot Street and crashed into a motorcycle around 9 p.m.
The motorcyclist, Alberto Fernandez, 63, of Sayville, was transported to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore for treatment of serious injuries. Hynes was transported to the same hospital with minor injuries. Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks.
Hynes, 53, was charged with driving while intoxicated.
Fernandez's longtime partner told News 12 off camera that "this whole thing is sad" and that "Thank God he's alive."
She said he's still hospitalized and was undergoing surgery on Monday.
According to court documents, Hynes was unsteady on his feet with slurred speech and bloodshot eyes.
He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment and was released on his own recognizance.
His attorney, John Halverson, said he's very confident going forward. He pointed out that a police officer stated that the motorcycle was traveling at a very high rate of speed.
Port Washington School District released a statement:
“The district is aware of the incident involving our superintendent of schools, Dr. Michael Hynes. We are gathering additional information. Dr. Christopher Shields has been appointed acting superintendent of schools effective immediately. When more information is available, the community will be updated.”
Hynes announced earlier this month that he planned to resign from his position in December.
