A sizeable chunk of Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown was closed off last Tuesday, after yet another pedestrian was mowed over while crossing the street.
According to police, 81-year-old Robert Chapman Sr. exited a NICE bus at Hempstead Tpke. around 5:45 a.m., and attempted to cross the street. Getting through the first two lanes unscathed, Chapman approached the third lane when he was struck by a 1991 Chevy
Geo Prism. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, James Taggart, 43, of Levittown was apprehended by police and has been charged with driving while intoxicated. He was arraigned on April 23, at First District Court in Hempstead.
Police said Taggart’s car was impounded for safety inspection and that the investigation is ongoing.
News of the fatal accident along the stretch of Hempstead Tpke. that runs through Levittown comes just months after another incident, last February, when a 14-year-old Levittown student suffered multiple injuries from a hit-and-run at the corner of Hempstead Tpke. and Shelter Lane.
According to a spokesperson with the Nassau County Public Information Office, there were no further updates on the police investigation at press time.
