Full Breakdown
Fatal Crash on Long Island Parkway Claims Lives of Elderly Couple
3/17/2026, 4:23:06 AM
Overview of the Incident
A tragic accident occurred on the Southern State Parkway in Long Island on Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of an elderly couple and injuries to ten others. The incident took place just after 10 p.m. near Exit 17S in Malverne, when 36-year-old Diana Kutateladze, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, lost control of her 2020 Cadillac Escalade. After sideswiping another vehicle, Kutateladze's car crossed the center median and collided head-on with oncoming traffic.
Details of the Collision
According to the New York State Police, the crash involved six vehicles and resulted in significant damage. The victims, Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent Maxwell, 88, were pronounced dead at the scene after their 2016 Toyota Highlander was struck by Kutateladze's vehicle. The collision led to a major emergency response, with multiple drivers and passengers requiring hospitalization, including one individual reported to be in critical condition.
Charges Against the Driver
Diana Kutateladze, a resident of Oceanside, has been charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated vehicular homicide, first-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree assault, driving while intoxicated (DWI), and reckless driving. Following the crash, she was hospitalized and is expected to be arraigned upon her recovery. A male passenger was also in her vehicle, but his condition has not been disclosed.
Official Statements & Responses
New York State Police confirmed the ongoing investigation into the incident and encouraged witnesses or anyone with video evidence to come forward. The police statement emphasized the severity of the situation, highlighting the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained by others involved in the crash.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation is still unfolding, there has been public outcry regarding the dangers of driving under the influence, particularly in light of this incident. Advocates for road safety have called for stricter enforcement of DWI laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies in the reporting of the exact number of vehicles involved and the total number of injuries. While most sources agree on ten injured individuals, the specifics of their conditions and the full extent of the damage remain unclear. Additionally, the identity and condition of Kutateladze's passenger have not been confirmed.
Verbatim Quotes
This incident underscores the critical importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of impaired driving.
