A driver from Long Island, who reportedly took drugs, is in critical condition following emergency surgery after hitting a cherished railroad crossing guard, according to authorities on Thursday.
Joshua Alvarado, 30, seemed to be under the influence as he briefly dozed off at the wheel while driving in Merrick, colliding with a 70-year-old guard who was assisting children on their way to school.
“He was someone who went out every day thinking about protecting young people, protecting kids going to and from school,” stated Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman during a county council meeting.
Alvarado, hailing from Rosedale, Queens, had stopped at a red light on the corner of Merrick Avenue and Sunrise Highway just after 8 a.m. when, officials say, the steering wheel was raised, as if he had fallen asleep.
Authorities indicated that he was startled awake by someone honking and then, startled, hit the gas pedal. He attempted to turn, swerved out of his lane, jumped onto the sidewalk, and struck the part-time railroad crossing guard.
County Police Chief Patrick Ryder mentioned that the guard had just helped a group of students cross the street safely.
Good Samaritans who witnessed the incident rushed to assist the injured guard and quickly transported him to Nassau University Medical Center, according to officials.
In terms of Alvarado’s sobriety, he failed two breathalyzer tests, including one conducted at the scene. Authorities are awaiting blood sample results to clarify what substances were in his system during the incident.
He is now facing charges of driving under the influence of drugs, vehicular assault, and second-degree assault.
An arraignment for Alvarado is scheduled for Friday morning in Nassau County Court.
“We’re going to do everything we can to help him and his family get through this really tough accident,” Blakeman remarked.
