One killed in two-car LaGrange crash
On the above date and time Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Noxon Road near Firemen’s Way in LaGrange for a report of a serious crash, and upon arrival observed it to be a two-car crash with 3 people injured. Preliminary investigation has shown that a 2000 Honda Civic operated by Jonathan J. Steere (age 26 of Yorktown Heights, NY) was traveling southbound on Noxon Rd when it crossed over the center pavement markings and struck a northbound 2006 Dodge Ram occupied by driver Santiago M. Castillo (age 38 of Poughkeepsie) and passenger Jose R. Castillo (age 49 of Poughkeepsie). Mr. Steere was transported to Mid Hudson Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead, and the occupants of the other vehicle were transported to Vassar Hospital where they were treated for non-life threatening injuries. Evidence shows that Mr. Steere was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
During the investigation it was discovered that the operator of the Dodge, Mr. Castillo, is unlicensed and was in possession of a forged Pennsylvania license. Upon his release from the hospital Mr. Castillo was arrested and charged with unlicensed operation of a vehicle (traffic infraction) and possession of a forged instrument (felony), and after being processed he was released on appearance tickets. Mr. Castillo is due to reappear before the Town of LaGrange Court on 8/15/17 at 5:00 pm.
As with any criminal case the charges described above are merely accusations and Mr. Castillo is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the LaGrange Fire Department, and the investigation is continuing by members of the Accident Investigation Unit.
