Posted on: July 13, 2021 10:27 AM

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Update on the SSP fatality

On Monday, July 12, 2021 at approximately 3:17pm the state police are investigating a multi-vehicle fatal collision on the Southern State Parkway eastbound, east of exit 38 in the town of Babylon, Suffolk County.

Preliminary investigation revealed two vehicles, a white Jeep Grand Cherokee and Range Rover were traveling eastbound on the Southern State Parkway east of exit 38 operating erratically. The Jeep and the Range Rover attempted to pass in between two vehicles, a Toyota Prius and a Mitsubishi Outlander, which caused a collision. This collision resulted in the Range Rover exiting the roadway onto the right shoulder and into the tree line.

The Mitsubishi Outlander lost control, struck a tree, and overturned, coming to rest on the right shoulder. The Toyota Prius struck the cement jersey barrier coming to rest in the left lane, east of the scene. The driver of the Mitsubishi Outlander, Richard A. Riggs, age 75 of Holbrook, NY, died of his injuries at the scene. The two occupants of the Range Rover were witnessed being picked up by the white Jeep and fled the scene. It was later determined the Range Rover was stolen.

The collision is still under investigation and the state police is asking for any witnesses or anyone with information to call (631) 756-3300.