Robert Beodeker charged with reckless driving in fatal Meadowbrook crash

An East End man has been charged in the deadly accident on the Meadowbrook Parkway in North Merrick yesterday.

Prosecutors say Robert Beodeker admitted to taking Ambien and depression medication before the crash.

Beodeker, of Aquebogue, is charged with reckless driving and driving without a license. Beodeker's license has been suspended for failure to pay traffic tickets.

John Elder, of Freeport, and Edward Ross, of North Bellmore, were on the shoulder of the parkway trying to fix their disabled car when they were struck. Officials say Beodeker plowed into them with his truck. 

Beodeker is the dean of students at Suffolk Community College's Riverhead campus.

Sources close to Beodeker say he regrets the accident and sends his condolences to the families.

Beodeker is due back in court Thursday.