Suffolk County Police arrested a Melville woman early Saturday morning after a motor vehicle crash killed an e-bike rider in Melville. Authorities identified the driver as 24-year-old Jennifer Kirkpatrick, who was operating a 2018 Subaru Forester southbound on Bagatelle Road when she attempted to make a left turn onto eastbound Express Drive South. At approximately 1:06 a.m., her vehicle struck a Razor fly-wing e-bike traveling northbound on Bagatelle Road.
The e-bike operator, whose identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin, was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip, where he was pronounced dead. Police have not released further details regarding his age or background. Kirkpatrick was taken to Huntington Hospital for treatment of minor injuries sustained in the crash. She was subsequently charged with driving while intoxicated and is being held overnight at the Fourth Precinct. She is scheduled to be arraigned at the First District Court in Central Islip on October 25.
Both the Subaru and the e-bike were impounded as part of the ongoing investigation. Suffolk County Police’s Major Case Unit is asking anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with relevant video footage are asked to contact detectives at 631-852-6553. Authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that charges could change as more details emerge.
Police also reminded residents of the dangers of impaired driving, particularly during late-night hours, and urged all motorists and e-bike riders to exercise caution. This tragic incident highlights the risks posed by driving while intoxicated and underscores the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists. As Suffolk County continues to monitor traffic safety and enforcement, officials encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or unsafe driving behaviors.
Major Case Unit detectives are asking anyone with information on this crash to call 631-852-6553.