Community Turns Out in Force to Help Elderly Couple After Rollover Crash

RIVERHEAD, NY - In times of trouble, the community comes together with a fierce outpouring of love to help those in need.

After a March 30 rollover accident on Route 58 in Riverhead left an elderly couple facing huge medical and financial obstacles, caring friends and loved ones have rallied to support them.

Rose and Sal Allocco were involved in the "horrific" accident, and now, a GoFundMe, "Please Help Rose & Sal Keep Their Home," has been set up. The page has raised $6,925 of its $1,300 goal so far.

"This is so unbelievable," wrote organizer Christine Milken. "Thank you everyone for helping us help Rose and Sal. Words cannot begin to express my gratitude. You've truly restored my faith. There are still good people in this world we live in. Thank you."

According to Milken, the accident took right outside Apple Honda on Route 58 in Riverhead, where she works. Milken said Sal has Alzheimer's, while his wife Rose remains in critical condition in Stony Brook Hospital.

"Something in me has wanted to do nothing but help this couple since I watched their car flip before my eyes," she wrote. "They're both 82, have no family, no children and are in need of help," to pay rent and other expenses. "Please give what you can. I would hope someone would do the same for me, if the need arose. Thank you all in advance."

According to Riverhead Police, Rose Allocco was driving a 2008 Ford Focus and heading west on County Road 58 near Apple Honda when the vehicle left the roadway. The vehicle struck a guard rail and overturned, coming to rest on its roof, police said.

The couple was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of their injuries. The Riverhead Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the Riverhead Fire Department also responded to the scene. The involved vehicle was impounded to conduct a safety check. County Road 58 was closed to conduct the accident investigation.

Photo: Google Maps