MELVILLE, N.Y. — A devastating crash in Suffolk County early Saturday morning has left one man dead and a woman facing serious criminal charges. Authorities say 37-year-old Jennifer Kirkpatrick, of Melville, was arrested after allegedly driving under the influence and fatally striking an e-bike rider.
According to Suffolk County Police, the collision occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. near Bagatelle Road and Express Drive South. Kirkpatrick was reportedly traveling in the area when her vehicle struck 28-year-old Joseph Melendez of Wyandanch, who was riding an electric bicycle at the time. The impact threw Melendez onto the roadway, causing severe injuries.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes and transported Melendez to a nearby hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead. Kirkpatrick, who suffered minor injuries, was also taken to the hospital for evaluation before being charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). Police said additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
The crash has deeply affected the local community, with residents expressing heartbreak and frustration over another preventable loss linked to impaired driving. Friends and loved ones of Melendez remember him as a hardworking, kindhearted young man who always looked out for others. His sudden death has left family members devastated and searching for answers.
Investigators from the Suffolk County Police Department’s Major Case Unit are continuing to piece together what led up to the deadly crash. Detectives are examining factors such as vehicle speed, lighting conditions, and whether Melendez was wearing reflective gear at the time. Police have also appealed to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area to come forward.
This tragic accident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence — a split-second decision that can destroy lives. As the investigation moves forward, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office is expected to review the case for possible upgraded charges. Meanwhile, the community continues to mourn Joseph Melendez, whose life was cut short far too soon.