Driver in fatal N. Merrick crash charged with DWI

A Brooklyn man is under arrest after a crash on the Meadowbrook Parkway that left one dead early on Thanksgiving morning, New York State Police said.

Bilal Hassan, 23, was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, second-degree manslaughter, first-degree vehicular manslaughter, reckless driving and driving while intoxicated after authorities said he lost control of his black 2014 Infiniti on the Meadowbrook Parkway exit ramp at the Southern State Parkway in North Merrick at roughly 2:30 a.m. on Nov. 27.

After losing control, police said, Hassan drove off the road and collided with a tree, causing the vehicle to burst into flames. A pair of state troopers then extinguished the fire.

Hassan’s front seat passenger, Malih Takkouche, 23, also of Brooklyn, died in the crash. Hassan was extricated from the car and rushed to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow with serious injuries, including two broken legs and head trauma.

The cause of the accident is under investigation. State Police have asked that anyone with information about the crash to call the Valley Stream Bureau of Criminal Investigation at (516) 561-8492.