A devastating accident early Saturday morning has claimed the life of Jerry Diaz, a 24-year-old from Nesconset, leaving his family, friends, and community in mourning. The crash occurred on Route 347 (Nesconset Highway) near New Moriches Road, just outside the Smith Haven Mall and Whole Foods Market.
Details of the Crash
According to Suffolk County Police, the incident unfolded around 12:22 a.m. on Saturday. Jerry Diaz was traveling westbound on his 2022 Honda motorcycle when a 2017 GMC truck, driven by Mark Anthony Giordano, 25, of St. James, attempted to make a left turn from New Moriches Road onto Route 347.
The motorcycle struck the truck with tremendous force. Sadly, Jerry Diaz was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. Authorities allege that Giordano was intoxicated at the time of the crash. He was immediately taken into custody and has since been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Both the motorcycle and the GMC truck were impounded for safety inspections as detectives with the Major Case Unit began reconstructing the crash. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing roadway evidence to determine the full chain of events.
Giordano was held overnight at the Sixth Precinct and arraigned Saturday at First District Court in Central Islip. Additional charges could be filed as the investigation progresses. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the Major Case Unit at 631-852-6553.
Community Reaction and Grief
News of Jerry Diaz’s passing has spread quickly through Nesconset and surrounding communities, where he was remembered as a vibrant, hardworking young man with his entire future ahead of him. Friends and neighbors described him as warm, kind, and ambitious, someone who approached life with enthusiasm and a deep love for motorcycles.
“This is heartbreaking beyond words,” said one friend. “Jerry had so much life to live. Losing him this way is devastating.”
The tragedy has also reignited conversations about the dangers of impaired driving, a preventable cause of so many fatal crashes. Residents voiced frustration and sorrow that another young life was cut short due to one person’s reckless decision.
A Dangerous Roadway
Route 347 is one of Suffolk County’s busiest and most dangerous roadways, with a long history of serious crashes. Its wide lanes, heavy traffic, and high number of intersections make it particularly hazardous. Saturday’s collision is another grim addition to a roadway already known for tragedy, especially in areas like the New Moriches Road intersection.
Local officials and traffic safety advocates continue to urge drivers to act responsibly, emphasizing the importance of designating a sober driver or using rideshare services. “Crashes like this are completely preventable,” one advocate stated. “One reckless decision can change countless lives forever.”
Honoring Jerry Diaz
As his loved ones struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss, plans are underway for vigils and memorial gatherings to celebrate Jerry’s life. His family and friends are expected to come together in the coming days to share stories, honor his memory, and provide one another with strength and comfort during this heartbreaking time.
For now, the community holds tight to memories of Jerry’s laughter, kindness, and the light he brought into their lives — even as they grieve the senseless loss of a young man gone too soon.