Flanders, NY (September 15, 2025) – A tragic head-on crash early Sunday morning on Long Island left one man dead and three others seriously injured, according to the Southampton Town Police Department. The violent collision occurred just before 2:40 a.m. on September 14 along Flanders Rd near Birch Creek Rd, prompting an extensive emergency response and a lengthy road closure for investigation.
Authorities reported that a Chevrolet Malibu and a Honda sedan collided head-on, leaving both vehicles with “catastrophic damage.” First responders arriving at the scene discovered the aftermath of the high-impact crash, which had fatally injured the Honda driver, 23-year-old Juan Camilo Alape Penuela of Riverhead. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Inside the Honda, two female passengers also suffered severe trauma. One woman was ejected from the vehicle during the collision and transported to the hospital by ambulance. The second woman, who was trapped inside the wreckage, was rescued by emergency crews and airlifted to a local trauma center for treatment of serious injuries.
The driver of the Chevrolet was also hospitalized after sustaining a head injury. Officials have not released that individual’s identity or condition.
Due to the severity of the wreck and the need for a thorough investigation, Flanders Rd remained closed until approximately 9:45 a.m. The Southampton Town Police Department confirmed that the incident remains under active investigation.
Our hearts go out to the family of Juan Camilo Alape Penuela and to those injured in this tragic accident. We wish them strength and healing in the days ahead.
High-Impact Collisions on Long Island Roads
Flanders Rd is a heavily traveled route in Suffolk County, often used by early-morning commuters and local residents. While rural in parts, stretches of the road carry vehicles at high speeds with limited lighting and minimal median separation—conditions that significantly elevate the risk of head-on collisions.
Crashes like Sunday morning’s devastating wreck underscore the destructive potential of these types of accidents. Head-on collisions account for some of the most fatal outcomes in motor vehicle crashes due to the direct transfer of force and the vulnerability of front-seat occupants. In this case, the loss of a 23-year-old driver and the serious injuries to three others reflect how sudden and violent such incidents can be.
The fact that one passenger was ejected, and another required extrication and airlifting, indicates not only the extreme speed or impact involved but also the critical importance of seatbelt use and vehicle safety systems. First responders on Long Island are trained to handle these complex crash scenarios, but even the fastest emergency response cannot undo the physical trauma caused in such moments.
For families affected by fatal and catastrophic crashes, the aftermath often brings not just grief but also financial and legal burdens. Medical costs, funeral expenses, accident reconstruction, and insurance disputes can pile up rapidly, especially when multiple victims are involved.
Victims and families deserve more than sympathy—they need guidance, resources, and representation to ensure they’re protected and supported during recovery or loss.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a serious crash in Suffolk County, Local Accident Reports can help. We provide immediate access to vital information, medical and legal resources, and compassionate support to help you navigate the aftermath of tragedy. Reach out to us today to find the help you need to begin your path forward.
