Former NYC Firefighter Sentenced In Fatal Hit-And-Run

BUCHANAN, NY — A former member of the New York City Fire Department will be avoiding going to prison for leaving the scene of a fatal accident.

Eric Werner, of Buchanan, was sentenced Tuesday to five years probation in the death of Joseph Orichello, 63, also of Buchanan.

Orichello was struck and killed by Werner shortly after midnight Dec. 29, 2018.

Werner was traveling more than 50 mph on Route 9 in Peekskill when he hit Orichello, who was walking along the roadway.

Werner failed to stop as required by law and then hid his vehicle inside a landscaping trailer owned by his business, Friendly Lawn Care in Peekskill.

Following an investigation by the Westchester County Police, Werner was arrested Dec. 30 and pleaded guilty to New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law 600.

Westchester District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah said she extended her condolences to the Orichello's loved ones.

"I am deeply saddened by the death of a county resident due to this defendant's driving and his subsequent attempt to avoid taking responsibility," she said.

"Every one of us has an obligation to drive safely at all times," Rocah said, "and to remain at the scene if we are involved in an accident."

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