West Babylon School District Mourns the Tragic Death of 18-Year-Old Riley Goot in a Fatal Car Accident That Left Two Dead and Four Seriously Injured: A Community in Grief Over the Loss of Recent Graduate and Prominent Student, as Investigation into the Collision Unfolds
The West Babylon School District is grappling with the shocking and tragic loss of one of their recent graduates, Riley Goot, an 18-year-old who passed away in a devastating car accident that also left four other young people, all graduates of the school, seriously injured. The fatal accident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, September 16, 2023, at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Great East Neck Road in West Babylon, New York. The news of this tragedy was confirmed by the Suffolk County Police Department and has left the tight-knit community heartbroken. The school district has come together to support the families affected by this unimaginable loss, as they begin the grieving process while still trying to comprehend the details of what transpired that night.
Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly, expressed her condolences and shared the deep sorrow felt throughout the district in a statement that read:
“It is with a heavy heart that I write to you today to share the devastating news of a tragic car accident that occurred last night involving recent graduates and members of the extended WB family. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends impacted by this tragedy.”
This statement, released only hours after the accident, captures the grief and shock that has overwhelmed the West Babylon community, where Riley was widely known and respected for his character, academic achievements, and involvement in extracurricular activities. His sudden death has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and teachers who are now mourning the loss of a bright young life cut tragically short.
The Tragic Accident: A Detailed Account
According to Suffolk County police, the accident took place around 1 a.m. at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Great East Neck Road in West Babylon. It was reported that a 2017 Kia driven by 33-year-old Michael Desmond of Lindenhurst was heading east on Railroad Avenue when Desmond allegedly ran a red light and collided with a 2025 Kia Seltos traveling south on Great East Neck Road.
The impact of the crash was catastrophic. Desmond, who was driving the vehicle that ran the red light, was pronounced dead at the scene. Meanwhile, the Kia Seltos carried five passengers, all of whom were recent graduates or current students from the West Babylon School District, including Riley Goot.
Riley, seated as a passenger in the Seltos, suffered critical injuries in the collision. He was rushed to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip, where despite the efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His death sent immediate ripples of grief throughout the West Babylon community, where Riley had just recently graduated and was preparing to embark on the next chapter of his life.
The driver of the Seltos, 17-year-old Bella Trezza of Babylon, sustained serious injuries along with the other passengers: 18-year-olds Austin Trezza and Jack Murphy, both also from Babylon. They were all taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital for treatment. The fourth passenger, 16-year-old Anthony Pagliuca of West Babylon, was transported to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, also suffering from severe injuries. Their conditions have since stabilized, but the physical and emotional scars left by this tragic event will undoubtedly stay with them for years to come.
The Aftermath: Grief and Mourning
The West Babylon School District, which had celebrated Riley’s graduation only months before, was now mourning his death. Riley was known for his infectious personality, intelligence, and dedication to his studies. He had recently completed his high school journey and was making plans for his future, a future that tragically never came to be.
Riley’s sudden passing has left his family and friends devastated. His parents, siblings, and close friends are struggling to cope with the harsh reality of losing someone so full of promise and potential. A flood of tributes began pouring in almost immediately from those who knew Riley best, remembering him as a kind-hearted and compassionate individual who touched the lives of many.
“Riley was a bright light,” said one of his teachers, overcome with emotion. “He was one of those students who truly stood out—not just for his academic achievements but for his character. He had a warmth about him that made him loved by his peers and teachers alike.”
Friends of Riley also shared memories of his joyful spirit and his ability to bring people together. One friend described Riley as “someone you could always count on,” while another spoke of his passion for life and the deep love he had for his family and friends. These personal tributes paint a picture of a young man who had an indelible impact on those around him, and whose absence will be deeply felt by everyone who knew him.
The Investigation: What Happened That Night?
As the West Babylon community struggles to process the enormity of the loss, investigators are working diligently to piece together the details of the crash. According to Suffolk County detectives, preliminary reports suggest that Michael Desmond ran a red light, which led to the fatal collision. It remains unclear whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash, though toxicology reports and further investigation will help determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
The aftermath of the accident left a scene of devastation at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Great East Neck Road. Debris from both vehicles was scattered across the roadway, and the damage to both cars indicated the sheer force of the impact. First responders worked quickly to provide aid to the victims, but the extent of the injuries proved too severe for both Riley Goot and Michael Desmond.
The investigation is ongoing, and Suffolk County Police have urged anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Detectives from the First Squad of the Suffolk County Police Department are leading the investigation, and they are seeking witnesses who may have seen what happened in the moments leading up to the crash. Community members have also been encouraged to contact the police with any dashcam footage or other evidence that could shed light on the accident.
The Impact on the West Babylon Community
The loss of Riley Goot has sent shockwaves throughout the West Babylon School District and the broader community. In the days following the accident, a somber atmosphere has settled over the town, with many residents expressing their grief and heartbreak over the tragedy.
The West Babylon School District has offered counseling services to students, teachers, and parents affected by the loss, acknowledging that the death of a young person can have a profound and lasting emotional impact. Superintendent Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly has been in close communication with the Goot family, offering support during this incredibly difficult time. She has also emphasized the importance of coming together as a community to support one another in the wake of such a devastating event.
“We are all grieving,” Dr. Farrelly said in a follow-up statement. “Riley was a cherished member of our school community, and his death is a tremendous loss for all of us. We will continue to do everything we can to support his family and friends, as well as the other students who were involved in this tragic accident.”
Honoring Riley’s Life and Legacy
In the days following Riley’s death, plans have been made to honor his life and the legacy he leaves behind. Friends and family are working on organizing a memorial service, and the school district has expressed a desire to create a lasting tribute to Riley within the school. Whether through a scholarship fund, a commemorative bench, or another form of memorial, those who loved Riley are committed to ensuring that his memory lives on.
Riley’s family has also shared that funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days, and they have asked for privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved son.
For many, the shock of Riley’s death will take time to heal. But as the West Babylon community begins to pick up the pieces and move forward, they will continue to hold onto the memories of a young man who brought so much joy, love, and kindness into the lives of those who knew him.
Riley’s story is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his friends, family, and all those whose lives he touched. As the investigation into the accident continues, one thing is certain: Riley’s memory will forever be etched into the fabric of the West Babylon community, a testament to a life lived with kindness and love, but taken far too soon.
Prayers to everyone. My cousin Anthony P., is one of the injured people.