WEST BABYLON, NY – A devastating car accident in West Babylon, New York, early Saturday morning claimed the lives of two young men: Michael Desmond, 33, and Riley Goot, 18. The collision occurred at the intersection of Great East Neck Road and Railroad Avenue around 1 a.m.
According to authorities, Michael Desmond was driving a 2017 Kia sedan when he failed to stop at a red light. His vehicle struck a 2025 Kia Seltos carrying five teenagers, including Riley Goot. Desmond was pronounced dead at the scene.
Riley Goot, a recent graduate of West Babylon High School, was transported to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip but succumbed to his injuries. Four other teenagers in the car were seriously injured and taken to nearby hospitals.
The crash has left the community in shock and mourning. Local schools have offered counseling services to help students and staff cope with the tragedy. Multiple GoFundMe pages have been set up to support the families affected by the accident.
- Join us to help Austin and Bella Trezza and their family (GoFundMe)
- Support Riley Goot’s Family, After Tragic Loss (GoFundMe)
- Please help support West Babylon teen Jack Murphy and family (GoFundMe)
A seperate FundtheFirst page has been set up for Anthony Pagliuca who will undergo several surgeries.
Investigators are continuing to investigate if speed was also a factor in the crash.