A late-night car crash on Long Island killed the 16-year-old driver and his two passengers, a 17-year-old high school senior and an 18-year-old high school senior, in Suffolk County, officials said Thursday.
Suffolk County Police say Cem Gunes was behind the wheel of a 2009 Infinity G37 that veered off Nicolls Road, by Division Street, in Holtsville and crashed into a wooded area around 9:45 p.m. Wednesday.
Gunes, of Holtsville, and his two passengers, 17-year-old Taylor Beltramini, of Moriches, and Landon Kromhout Auditore, an 18-year-old from Mastic, died at the scene.
Beltramini and Auditore were both enrolled in the William Floyd School District. Beltramini was in her senior year at Floyd Academy, while Auditore was a senior at William Floyd High School.
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He had been set to graduate in June and Beltramini was supposed to graduate next month.
"We have reached out to both families to offer any support that they need through this difficult time," the statement said, noting grief counselors were available district-wide. "Our thoughts and prayers are with their friends and families at this time."
According to New York State law, no more than one passenger under the age of 21 is permitted to ride with a junior licensed driver unless a parent, guardian or driving instructor is in the vehicle.
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The vehicle was impounded for a safety check. Anyone with information on the crash is asked to call 631-854-8652.
