A heartbreaking crash late Sunday night on the Southern State Parkway has claimed the lives of an elderly couple, leaving their loved ones grieving a sudden and tragic loss. Authorities confirmed that Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent B. Maxwell, 88, were killed in the devastating multi-vehicle collision that occurred in Nassau County.
According to New York State Police, the crash happened at approximately 10:13 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, along the westbound lanes of the parkway just west of Exit 17 South in the Town of Hempstead. Troopers responded to reports of a serious collision involving several vehicles. When they arrived, they found multiple damaged cars scattered across the roadway, indicating the violent nature of the crash.
Investigators say the chain of events began when 36-year-old Diana Kutateladze, of Oceanside, was driving a 2020 Cadillac Escalade westbound and sideswiped a gray BMW traveling in the left lane. Following the initial impact, the Escalade reportedly lost control and crossed the center median. The SUV then continued moving westbound while traveling in the eastbound lanes, creating a dangerous situation for oncoming traffic.
Authorities said the out-of-control vehicle struck several other cars before ultimately crashing head-on into a 2016 Toyota Highlander. The violent collision triggered a massive scene involving six vehicles and ten people who were either drivers or passengers. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, working quickly to assist victims and provide medical care while investigators began examining how the deadly crash unfolded.
Tragically, Donald Maxwell and Liscent B. Maxwell, who were passengers inside the Toyota Highlander, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their sudden passing has left a deep sense of sorrow among family members and those who knew them. Several other individuals involved in the crash were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials said one person suffered critical injuries, while others sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Police later said that speed and impairment are believed to have played a role in the crash. Kutateladze was arrested and now faces multiple charges, including aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter, assault, driving while intoxicated, and reckless driving. As the investigation continues, authorities say their focus remains on determining all the circumstances surrounding the tragedy while the community mourns the loss of two lives taken far too soon.
