Teens in Critical Condition After Long Island Crash Caused by Backseat Passenger: Cops

SEAFORD, NY - Five people were hurt, including two critically, in a single-car crash on Sunrise Highway in Seaford early Monday that was caused by a backseat passenger hitting the driver and causing him to lose control, Nassau Police said.

According to police, a 22-year-old man was driving a 2005 Nissan east on Sunrise Highway when an argument ensued with 19-year-old Leanne Gilzeane around 3:45 a.m. 

Gilzeane, of Seaford, began to strike the driver, causing him to lose control of the vehicle and strike a utility pole, police said.

An 18-year-old woman in the backseat was ejected from the vehicle into the roadway and a 17-year-old male backseat passenger was partially ejected, police said. They are both listed in critical condition at an area hospital.

The 23-year-old male front seat passenger was treated and released from the hospital.

Gilzeane and the driver have been admitted to the hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Gilzeane is charged with second degree reckless endangerment. She will be arraigned when medically practical.

Police did not identify any of the other people involved in the crash. The investigation is continuing.