Eighth graders Drew Hassenbein and Ethan Falkowitz, both 14, were killed in a devastating car crash on Long Island involving a drunk pick-up truck driver traveling in the wrong direction. Both teens were accomplished tennis players and cherished members of their community.
The fatal incident occurred when Amandeep Singh, 34, driving his 2019 Dodge Ram, collided with a 2019 Alfa Romeo carrying the two teens and two other boys aged 16 and 17. The two survivors sustained internal injuries and were reportedly in stable condition.
The impact of the crash forced the teens’ vehicle into a 2023 Volvo, leaving its occupants with minor injuries. The accident scene was described as “one of the most catastrophic” by Nassau Det. Capt. Stephen Fitzpatrick. The young victims had stopped for a meal after a tennis event and were heading home when the tragic accident occurred.
Hassenbein and Falkowitz were seated on the right side of the car, so the pair bore the brunt of the impact. Both young athletes were members of Roslyn High School’s varsity soccer team.
Sportime Roslyn, a local tennis club where the teens honed their skills, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two talented players who began their tennis journeys at the club when they were just five and six years old.
Singh, who initially fled the scene, was apprehended by the police a short distance away. He had bloodshot eyes, alcohol on his breath, and a blood alcohol level of 0.18 percent. Singh was given several criminal charges as a result, including vehicular manslaughter and driving while intoxicated. He is being held without bail and is due to reappear in court on Monday.