A 23-year-old Brooklyn man with an active warrant was arrested after a multi-vehicle crash on the Southern State Parkway early Friday morning that left a New York State Police vehicle heavily damaged. Authorities say the driver was intoxicated and attempted to flee the scene on foot.
Crash occurred just after 3:30 a.m. on May 23
New York State Police responded to a one-car accident involving a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee on the eastbound side of the Southern State Parkway near the Belt Parkway around 3:30 a.m. on May 23, 2025. The Jeep was disabled in the right lane, prompting troopers to position their marked patrol vehicle behind it and activate emergency lights. Flares were also deployed to alert oncoming drivers and maintain public safety.
While troopers were outside their vehicle, a 2024 BMW 530 struck an unrelated 2023 Toyota Camry, pushing it into the stationary NYSP vehicle and causing significant damage. The BMW then continued forward and collided with the already-disabled Jeep.
Driver tried to flee the scene on foot
After the crash, the driver of the BMW attempted to walk away but was intercepted by troopers. The man initially provided a false name. Further investigation identified him as Messiah Robinson, 23, of Brooklyn. Troopers determined that Robinson was intoxicated and placed him under arrest.
Robinson refused both a breathalyzer and standardized field sobriety tests. Authorities also discovered an active bench warrant from the NYPD for menacing a police officer.
Multiple charges filed
Robinson now faces several criminal and traffic charges, including:
- Driving While Intoxicated
- Reckless Endangerment in the Second Degree
- Criminal Impersonation in the Second Degree
- Numerous Vehicle and Traffic Law violations
He is scheduled to appear in Nassau First District Court on June 13, 2025.
Police issue summer driving safety warning
In light of the incident and the approaching Memorial Day weekend, state police reminded the public of the dangers of impaired driving during what they call the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer”—a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities historically spike.
“Do NOT put the lives of others at risk because of your selfish decisions,” the department said in a statement.
Drivers are urged to use designated drivers, public transit, or ride-share options if impaired, and to always make safe choices before getting behind the wheel.
For updates and public safety information check out the FingerLakes1.com Public Safety section.
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