Amandeep Singh receives maximum prison term for fatal high-speed collision
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Deadly crash sparks grief and outrage in courtroom
An Indian-origin construction executive has been sentenced to up to 25 years in prison for a drunk and drug-fueled crash at 150 kmph that claimed the lives of two teenage tennis players, reported gujaratsamachar.com.
Amandeep Singh was sentenced on Friday in Mineola, Long Island, receiving a maximum 25-year prison term with a minimum of eight years and four months. During the emotional hearing, nine family members and friends of the victims denounced him in court.
Under Judge Helene Gugerty’s ruling, Singh must serve at least the minimum sentence before parole eligibility, with the term extending to 25 years if he fails to qualify.
Addressing the grieving families, a remorseful Singh admitted his guilt, stating, “Your anger towards me is fully understood and totally justified. Losing a child is the greatest grief. If anyone should have died, it should have been me.”
The sentencing attracted such a large crowd of supporters for the victims that two additional courtrooms had to be opened to accommodate them.
Singh, 36, a project manager for a construction company, was found guilty of reckless homicide.
Nassau District Attorney Anne Donnely revealed that in May 2023, Singh was driving his Dodge Ram truck at 150 kmph in a 65 kmph zone, going the wrong way.
He crashed into an Alfa Romeo carrying four teens, killing 14-year-olds Ethan Falkowitz and Drew Hassenbein, both rising tennis stars. The other two teens survived.
Following the crash, Singh attempted to evade authorities by hiding near a dumpster. Tests later confirmed his blood alcohol level was 0.15 percent—nearly twice the legal limit of 0.08 percent—and showed traces of cocaine.
Remembering the Victims
In memory of Falkowitz, his family has established a foundation to promote youth tennis. Partnering with the US Tennis Association and other organizations, they now host a tennis classic tournament in his honor.
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