Robert Moore, 49, of Marc Drive told investigators he was driving a 2008 Mack garbage truck westbound on Pulaski Road in Northport when his brakes failed as he approached the intersection of Bread and Cheese Hollow Road around 8 a.m., police said. Mr. Moore told investigators he made a right turn onto Bread and Cheese Hollow Road in an attempt to avoid a crash, police said. The truck then rolled over onto a southbound 2008 Honda that was being driven by Deborah Shavalier, 56 ,of Fort Salonga, police said. The garbage truck also struck a 2005 Subaru, which was being driven by 53-year-old Northport resident Christine Abbantuono, who was traveling behind Ms. Shavalier's car, according to police.
Ms. Shavalier was pronounced dead at the scene by a physician assistant from the Suffolk County Medical Examiner's Office. Mr. Moore, 49, was transported to St. Catherine of Sienna Medical Center in Smithtown where he was treated for minor injuries and released. Ms. Abbatantuono sustained minor injuries and refused medical treatment at the scene.
Officers from the motor carrier safety section examined the garbage truck -- which is owned by Jet Sanitation of Islandia -- and the other cars were impounded for a safety check, police said
The investigation is continuing, according to police. Investigators are asking anyone with information on the crash to call the Second Squad at 631-854-8252.
peggy@northshoresun.com