A 22-year-old man from Riverhead, Erik Yat Velasquez, has been indicted on multiple charges following a multi-car crash on Quogue Riverhead Road. The charges include Aggravated Vehicular Assault and Driving While Intoxicated, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office.
On November 29, 2025, Velasquez was driving northbound at high speed when his 2015 Jeep reportedly crossed into oncoming traffic, sideswiping one vehicle before colliding head-on with another. The crash caused multiple injuries, and passengers from both vehicles, as well as Velasquez’s passenger, were taken to the hospital for treatment. Law enforcement reported that Velasquez showed signs of intoxication at the scene.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney said that the charges reflect the seriousness of Velasquez’s alleged actions and the potential danger posed to the public. He added that impaired or intoxicated driving is not tolerated on local roadways.
Yat Velasquez was arraigned yesterday on 15 charges, including three counts of Aggravated Vehicular Assault. Following treatment for injuries from the crash, he was released under supervision and had his driver’s license suspended by County Court Judge Bryan L. Browns. Velasquez is represented by attorney Anthony Rutkowski, and he is scheduled to return to court on March 3. The most serious charge carries a potential prison sentence of five to 15 years if convicted.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Emma Richards of the Vehicular Crime Bureau. The investigation was conducted by Detective Brandon Dubrow of the Southampton Town Police Department, along with members of the New York State Police.
