The community of Farmingdale is mourning the tragic loss of Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent B. Maxwell, 88, who were killed in a devastating wrong-way crash on the Southern State Parkway on the night of Sunday, March 15. The heartbreaking incident has left family members, friends, and residents across the region grappling with shock and sorrow.
According to New York State Police, the collision occurred around 10:13 p.m. just west of Exit 17 South in the Town of Hempstead. Troopers responded to reports of a multi-vehicle crash and arrived to find several severely damaged vehicles in the eastbound lanes of the parkway.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Diana Kutateladze, 36, of Oceanside, was driving a 2020 black Cadillac Escalade westbound when she sideswiped a gray BMW in the left lane. Authorities say she then lost control of the vehicle, crossed the center median, and entered the eastbound lanes traveling the wrong direction. The Escalade reportedly struck multiple vehicles before colliding head-on with a 2016 black Toyota Highlander.
The crash ultimately involved six vehicles and ten occupants, creating a chaotic and devastating scene along the parkway. Donald Maxwell and Liscent B. Maxwell, who were passengers in the Toyota Highlander, were pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel. Several other individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, including one person listed in critical condition, while additional injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
Authorities stated that speed and impairment are believed to have contributed to the crash. Kutateladze was arrested at the scene and now faces multiple charges, including aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter, assault, driving while intoxicated, and reckless driving.
The sudden loss of Donald and Liscent Maxwell has left loved ones and community members grieving two lives taken far too suddenly. While details about their lives and family have not yet been widely released, many in the community are reflecting on the profound tragedy and extending condolences to those affected.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or captured video footage to contact Investigator Jeffrey Shillingford at 212-814-9597 as the investigation remains ongoing.
As the community processes this devastating event, Donald and Liscent Maxwell are remembered as beloved individuals whose lives will not be forgotten. May they rest in eternal peace, and may their loved ones find strength and comfort during this time of profound grief. 🕊️💔
