Andrew Casey of Sound Beach, N.Y. in Suffolk County on Long Island, was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Blazer that struck several trees and a utility pole before coming to rest near the bottom of an embankment at the side of northbound Route 9 in Clermont, according to New York State Police.
Clarke, 28, a passenger in the Chevrolet, was "partially ejected" from the car and pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
Casey, who suffered no serious injuries in the crash, was found to be drunk by investigators at the scene, according to police. He was arrested and taken to Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Casey was arraigned in Livingston Town Court, where he was charged with second-degree vehicular manslaughter, a felony, and a misdemeanor count of DWI, according to police. He was then take to Columbia County jail, where he was held without bail.
The crash closed Route 9 for several hours as state police investigators reconstructed the scene. According to police, the crash remains under investigation.
Anyone with information related to the crash is urged to call state police at 845-677-7300.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Poughkeepsie and receive free news updates.