Local Residents Honored at the Legislature for Saving Victim of a Car Accident

At the September 4, 2024 General Meeting of the Legislature, Legislators Stephanie Bontempi (R- Centerport, NY) and Rob Trotta (R- Fort Salonga, NY) recognized the heroic efforts displayed by Michael Susinno of Kings Park, Michael Pitre of Commack, John McPartland of Fort Salonga, and Shane McCoy of Northport. Several of the men were on their way home when they came upon a single car accident with a severely injured young driver. John McPartland lives in the neighborhood and upon hearing the commotion, ran to assist. Michael Susinno, the Northport High School Orchestra Director, Michael Pitre, a malpractice lawyer, and John McPartland were able to remove the injured victim out of the car and bring her away from the car, which was engulfed in flames. Shane McCoy, a volunteer firefighter, stopped to use his training and fire extinguisher to help stop the spread of the flames. Mr. Pitre, who had taken a first aid course, took a belt to make a tourniquet for the woman’s severely cut leg. The Kings Park Fire Department and ambulance arrived to put out the fire and transport the woman to the hospital.

Legislator Stephanie Bontempi mentioned that two of the heroes, Shane McCoy and John McPartland, were unable to attend but was pleased that Michael Pietro and Michael Susinno could come. “We wanted to recognize you and present you with a proclamation for rescuing a young woman from a burning vehicle who would not have probably survived without your intervention,” said Legislator Bontempi.

“Talk about being in the right place and the right time, this was truly the case for this victim who survived and is recovering,” said Legislator Trotta. “What you did is something that extraordinary people do and you clearly did the right thing,” added Trotta.

“Coincidently, Michael Susinno recognized the victim as a former student and he shared some memories with her, which helped to calm her down,” noted Legislators Bontempi and Trotta.