Stony Brook, NY (January 3, 2026) – A tragic collision involving an intoxicated driver claimed the life of a young motorcyclist early Saturday morning, January 3, 2026. The accident occurred at approximately 12:22 a.m. at the intersection of Nesconset Highway (Route 347) and New Moriches Road.
According to the Suffolk County Police Department, 24-year-old Jerry Diaz of Nesconset was operating a 2022 Honda CRF450RL motorcycle westbound on Nesconset Highway. At the same time, 25-year-old Mark Anthony Giordano of St. James was driving a northbound 2017 GMC pickup truck. As Giordano attempted to make a left-hand turn onto the westbound Nesconset Highway from New Moriches Road, he entered the path of the motorcycle, resulting in a violent collision.
Jerry Diaz was pronounced dead at the scene by a physician assistant from the Office of the Suffolk County Medical Examiner. Mark Anthony Giordano was not injured in the crash but was arrested at the scene and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks, and the investigation remains active with the Suffolk County Police Major Case Unit.
Liability and Wrongful Death in Long Island DWI Intersections
The intersection of Nesconset Highway and New Moriches Road is governed by strict right-of-way laws, particularly concerning left-hand turns. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1141, a driver intending to turn left must yield the right of way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction that is close enough to constitute an immediate hazard. The fact that the driver in this incident was charged with DWI adds a layer of “negligence per se,” meaning that the violation of the law itself serves as evidence of negligence in a civil proceeding. For the family of Jerry Diaz, the driver’s intoxication and failure to yield provide strong grounds for a wrongful death claim.
How Can We Help
At Stanley Law, we help families navigate the devastating aftermath of fatal accidents caused by drunk drivers. If you are a loved one of Jerry Diaz, our New York motorcycle accident lawyer is here to ensure that the driver is held fully accountable in civil court, regardless of the outcome of their criminal case. We conduct exhaustive investigations to uncover every source of liability, so your family can focus on healing. Call us at 888-997-3889 for a free consultation today and let us fight for your rights.
