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The wreck happened in North Massapequa, in the eastbound lanes near exit 29, at around 8:50 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14.
New York State Police said a Nissan 350z left the roadway and crashed into the tree line. Troopers arrived to find the vehicle engulfed in flames with the male driver lying outside of the car dead.
He was identified as 21-year-old Brayan Antonio Benitez-Benitez, of Mineola.
Inside the vehicle, crews located a passenger who had suffered fatal injuries. The passenger’s identity had not been publicized as of Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 15.
A preliminary investigation revealed excessive speed was a contributing factor in the crash, police said.
The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Collision Reconstruction Unit are assisting in the investigation.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact NYSP at 631-756-3300.
Additional details about Benitez-Benitez' life were not immediately available. His family is invited to contact Daily Voice with funeral details, a statement, and/or photos by emailing mmashburn@dailyvoice.com.
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