Felony and Misdemeanor Charges in Rte 303 Crash

The driver of the golden Mitsubishi Eclipse hidden from view for hours after a crash on Route 303 now faces charges.

Jose D. Cruz, 31, faces charges of vehicular assault, a felony; driving while intoxicated, a misdemeanor; and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a misdemeanor.

Orangetown police said Cruz and his passenger, a 34-year-old Spring Valley woman, sustained serious injuries in the crash.

They were extricated from the wreck by the Tappan Fire Department; taken to Nyack Hospital by South Orangetown Ambulance Corps and Rockland Paramedic Services; and then taken to Westchester Medical Center.

The accident, near the Tappan Golf Range at Exit 5S of the Palisades Interstate Parkway, probably took place around 4 a.m, police said. But it was not discovered until 7:40 a.m.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information about it should call the police department at 845-359-3700 or the OPD Detective Bureau (845-359-2121).