MAMAKATING – A Village of Washingtonville police officer has been identified as the victim killed in a two-vehicle accident on Saturday night on Route 17 between exits 112 and 113 in Mamakating.
According to State Police, Jose Santiago Jr. was driving a 2021 Hyundai when he was struck by a 2019 Mercedes Sprinter Van driven by Robert Cromer, 62, of Liberty at about 5:20 p.m.
A source close to the investigation told Mid-Hudson News that the driver of the van fell asleep, crossed the median, and collided head-on with Santiago’s car, which was traveling in the other direction.
Santiago, 65, died at the scene. His wife, Blanca Santiago, 64, was transported via ambulance to Garnet Medical Center in the Town of Wallkill, where she remains.
“Jose he was a great guy and very involved in the community,” said Orange County Legislator Kathy Stegenga, who was neighbors with Santiago. “He and his wife were wonderful people. It is a big loss for the community. Jose was a presence in Washingtonville and everyone had respect for him.”
“I met Officer Santiago well over a decade and a half ago when he came to Orange County after retiring from New York City,” added Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler. “He had a great laugh and was an incredible storyteller, but most importantly he had a keen interest in the communities he served. My heart goes out to his family. It is a tragic loss.”
Santiago was retired from the NYPD and his son is a member of the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department.
Source: Mid-Hudson News, Justin Rodriguez
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