A shocking incident occurred on Sunday when an alleged drunk driver, Basilio Hidalgo, was arrested for driving his SUV on LIRR train tracks near the Elmont-UBS Arena station. The joyride caught on camera ended in flames as the vehicle rammed down the tracks, causing delays across the LIRR system. Video posted to social media shows the SUV taking a bumpy ride down the tracks before bursting into flames at the Bellerose Station, a distance of at least a half-mile. The Floral Park Fire Department extinguished the fire and removed the car using a specialized crane.
Due to this incident, train services in the Hempstead Branch were suspended, and there were significant delays on other branches as well. Hidalgo, 40, has been charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, third-degree criminal trespassing, and driving while intoxicated. This dangerous and reckless behavior put many lives at risk and caused disruption in train services in the area.
Authorities have emphasized the serious consequences of driving under the influence and trespassing on train tracks. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the importance of following traffic regulations to ensure the safety of all individuals. The MTA and law enforcement agencies have taken swift action to address the situation and prevent such incidents from reoccurring in the future.
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Photo credit nypost.com