Off-Duty Suffolk County Officer Arrested for DWI After Striking Pedestrian in Huntington, NY
A serious pedestrian crash in Huntington early Sunday morning has once again drawn attention to the dangers of impaired driving—this time involving an off-duty law enforcement officer.
According to Suffolk County police, a 28-year-old man was crossing New York Avenue at Carver Street around 2:30 a.m. when he was struck by a southbound 2012 Chevrolet Camaro. The driver was later identified as Alexander Vargas, a 30-year-old off-duty Suffolk County police officer assigned to the Second Precinct.
The victim sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. Vargas was arrested at the scene and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). Following the incident, he was suspended without pay.
As New York car accident attorneys who regularly represent victims of pedestrian crashes, we are deeply troubled whenever a member of law enforcement—who is sworn to protect the public—engages in reckless, unlawful conduct that results in harm. Driving under the influence is never acceptable, and the consequences can be devastating, especially for vulnerable road users like pedestrians.
Unfortunately, these types of early-morning crashes involving intoxicated drivers are not uncommon, particularly in areas with heavy bar or nightlife traffic. When a driver chooses to operate a vehicle while impaired, they put everyone around them at risk. This includes not only pedestrians but cyclists, other motorists, and even passengers.
Victims of DWI-related crashes may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In cases where the negligent driver is a government employee, such as a police officer—even while off-duty—there may be additional legal considerations and deadlines that apply. That’s why it is critical to consult an experienced New York personal injury lawyer as soon as possible following a serious crash.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk or reckless driver, don’t wait. Contact the attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf at 212-943-1090. Our firm has secured some of the highest verdicts and settlements in New York for victims of catastrophic motor vehicle accidents.
We are committed to holding all negligent parties accountable—no matter who they are.
Picture of the location of the accident: Courtesy of Google Map