Amandeep Singh, an Indian-origin construction executive, has been sentenced to a maximum of 25 years in prison for causing a fatal crash while driving under the influence of alcohol and cocaine. The accident claimed the lives of two 14-year-old tennis players, Ethan Falkowitz and Drew Hassenbein, in Long Island, New York.
Courtroom Filled With Grieving Families
Singh, 36, received his sentence on Friday in Mineola, Long Island, after an emotional hearing where nine family members and friends of the victims expressed their grief and anger. The courtroom was packed with supporters of the teens, and two additional courtrooms were opened to accommodate them.
Before his sentencing, a remorseful Singh addressed the families, saying, “Your anger towards me is fully understood and totally justified. This was all my fault. Losing a child is the greatest grief. I have committed the greatest sin. If anyone should have died, it should have been me.”
Judge Helene Gugerty sentenced Singh to a minimum of eight years and four months in prison before he becomes eligible for parole. However, if he fails to qualify for parole, he will serve the full 25-year term.
The Deadly Crash
On the night of May 2023, Singh was driving his Dodge Ram truck at an alarming speed of 150 kmph in a zone with a 65 kmph limit. He was also driving in the wrong direction when he crashed into an Alfa Romeo carrying four teenagers. Two of the teens survived, but Falkowitz and Hassenbein died on the spot.
Prosecutor Anne Donnely revealed that Singh fled the scene after the crash and was later found hiding near a garbage dumpster. Tests showed that his blood alcohol level was 0.15%, nearly twice the legal limit of 0.08%, and he also had cocaine in his system.
Remembering the Victims
Falkowitz and Hassenbein were talented young tennis players who had just celebrated a match victory before the fatal crash. To honor Falkowitz’s memory, his family has set up a foundation to promote tennis among young athletes. In collaboration with the US Tennis Association, they also organize a tennis classic tournament in his name.
The sentencing brings some closure to the grieving families, but their loss remains immeasurable. Singh will now serve his time, with the possibility of parole based on his behavior in prison.
Sources By Agencies