Deodat Ramotar detained after fatal crash on Southern State Parkway

Vehicle struck tree after driver lost control near Exit 13

December 13, 2025 | Hempstead, NY

A suspect is facing serious charges following a deadly early morning crash on Dec. 14 in Hempstead, New York, where a passenger lost their life.

Deodat J. Ramotar, 35, of Jamaica, Queens, faces vehicular manslaughter and DWI charges after his vehicle struck a tree on the Southern State Parkway near Exit 13 in Hempstead.

What Happened in the Crash?

New York State Police reported that the incident occurred around 4 a.m. on the Southern State Parkway near Exit 13. The details include:

• Vehicle and Driver: A Hyundai Sonata driven by Deodat J. Ramotar, 35, of Jamaica, Queens, was heading westbound.
• Cause: Ramotar allegedly lost control due to excessive speed for the road conditions, causing the car to strike a tree and stop on the right shoulder.
• Fatalities: One rear-seat passenger was declared dead at the scene, and their identity remains undisclosed.
• Injuries: Two other rear-seat passengers suffered injuries and were taken to Jamaica Hospital, and injury severity is not public. Ramotar and a front-seat passenger escaped unharmed.

The crash site on the Southern State Parkway highlights ongoing concerns about high-speed roadways in Nassau County.

What Charges Does the Driver Face?

Authorities suspect Ramotar was intoxicated during the incident. He has been charged with:

• Driving while intoxicated
• Two counts of vehicular manslaughter
• Two counts of third-degree assault
• Second-degree assault
• Second-degree reckless endangerment
• Multiple vehicle and traffic law violations

Following processing, Ramotar was held at the Nassau County Detention Center. The investigation by New York State Police continues to determine full circumstances.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on incidents involving impaired driving and their broader implications.

"Drunken and drugged drivers face criminal charges after accidents that harm or kill others," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "In cases such as this, families of victims may pursue compensation via civil lawsuits against the at-fault party."

Key takeaways from analyst insights on motor vehicle crashes:

• Impaired driving accounts for preventable tragedies on roads nationwide.
• Victims' families can seek damages for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
• Legal representation ensures rights are protected during investigations.

"The grief from losing a loved one in such an accident is overwhelming," noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "A wrongful death lawyer can monitor official investigation and safeguard families' interests."

DUI Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council, impaired driving contributes significantly to road fatalities. Below is a summary table of key data:

These figures underscore the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness on highways like the Southern State Parkway.

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