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Malverne, NY (March 19, 2026) – A deadly crash involving multiple vehicles occurred on Sunday night, March 15, on the Southern State Parkway near exit 17S in Malverne. The incident left two people dead and several others hurt after a vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic.
According to reports, the crash happened around 10 p.m. A 36-year-old woman driving a Cadillac Escalade was reportedly speeding when she sideswiped another vehicle. The impact caused her to lose control and veer over the central median.
The Escalade then entered opposing lanes and struck another vehicle head-on. That vehicle carried Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent Maxwell, 88, who were both pronounced dead at the scene.
In total, six vehicles and ten occupants were involved in the crash. Several people were hurt and taken to the hospital, with one person reported to be in critical condition. It remains unclear if a passenger in the Escalade was among those hospitalized.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
What Happens When a Vehicle Crosses a Highway Median?
When a vehicle crosses a highway median, the risk of a serious crash increases sharply due to high speeds and opposing traffic flow. Medians are designed to separate lanes and reduce the risk of head-on collisions, but loss of control or sudden maneuvers can still lead to dangerous situations.
Head-on crashes are among the most severe types of accidents because the combined speed of the two vehicles increases the impact force. This often leads to major vehicle damage and a higher chance of severe injuries or fatalities.
Several factors can contribute to a vehicle crossing a median, including speeding, impaired driving, or sudden lane changes. Road design, visibility, and traffic conditions can also influence how these incidents unfold. Understanding these factors helps explain why median-crossing crashes tend to have serious outcomes.
