Two New York State Police Troop Cars struck by Drunk Driver

Jaikaran Ramrookum, age 73 of Smithtown operating a 2004 gray Toyota RAV4 was charged with Driving Under the Influence (Unclassified Misdemeanor).

On November 16, 2024 at approximately 12:00 am two New York State Police vehicles were struck by a 2004 gray Toyota RAV4 on the Southern State Parkway Eastbound in the area of exit 39 and 40S, Town of Babylon Suffolk County.

Troopers were conducting an investigation involving a 2018 GMC Acadia that struck a department of transportation light tower in a work zone. The operator, Jared Robinson age 32 of Bay Shore, was found to be driving under the influence. During this investigation Troopers were in their vehicles behind the driver seat when Ramrookum's Toyota RAV4, not involved in the original investigation, struck the rear of one troop car pushing it into the other. The driver, identified as Ramrookum, after investigation was arrested and charged with driving under the influence.

In the immediate aftermath of this collision, both Troopers stunned by what had just occurred, responded to check on potential injuries of other motorists at this scene. It was only after their adrenaline began to subside that they recognized their own injuries. All parties were transported to local hospitals with non life threatening injuries.

This situation is a serious and unfortunate one. It is disappointing when individuals make choices that endanger the lives of others, especially those who are working to improve our roadways and protect the public. This incident serves as a reminder to drivers to not only drive sober but to be aware of their surroundings, slow down and move over.

It is important to remember that impaired driving is a serious offense that is 100% preventable with devastating consequences. It is crucial to make responsible choices and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.