Hit-and-run driver strikes 2 men changing flat tire in Shirley, 1 fatally

A hit-and-run driver struck two men — killing one — who were changing a flat tire on Thursday evening on the side of a Shirley road, according to the Suffolk County Police Department.

Neither man’s name was disclosed since their families had not yet been told about the crash, according to a department release issued just before midnight. Both men were in their 30s, the police press office wrote Friday in an email.

Detectives are seeking the suspected vehicle driven by the hit-and-run driver: a black Honda with front and passenger side damage, the release said. The press office declined to say how detectives developed this information.

The crash occurred about 6:45 p.m. just north of 1180 William Floyd Pkwy. The two men were on the shoulder changing the flat tire when the driver struck them. One of the men was declared dead at the scene; the other was brought to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious injuries.

The crash is being investigated by the Major Case Unit. The press office said no one has been arrested but did not respond when asked whether anyone is a suspect.

A 2021 study found that in an average year, more than 500 people were killed and nearly 15,000 were injured in crashes involving disabled vehicles nationwide.

By Matthew Chayes

matthew.chayes@newsday.comchayesmatthew

Matthew Chayes, a Newsday reporter since 2007, covers New York City.