Remembering Peter Morris: A Veteran's Tragic Passing After Leaving Granddaughter's School Ceremony
A Long Island veteran tragically passed away after being hit by a stolen car shortly after leaving a ceremony at his granddaughter's elementary school. Vietnam War veteran Peter Morris, 80, was struck by a stolen Nissan driven by 24-year-old Randy Colon outside Woodward Parkway Elementary School in South Farmingdale. Morris was pronounced dead at the scene, while Colon attempted to flee on foot but was later arrested.
Witnesses described the incident as the worst accident they had ever seen, with Morris' car being thrown onto the school lawn. Morris had just attended a ceremony honoring veterans at the school with his 9-year-old daughter, where he interacted with the children and shared stories about his life. His family remembered him as a lively and humorous individual who always had a joke to tell.
Morris' daughter, Suzanne Rysanek, recalled the special moments they shared at the school and the impact he had on the children. The family believes that Morris is now reunited with his wife who passed away five months earlier. The tragic incident has left the community in shock, especially with the presence of an elementary school nearby.
Colon was charged with manslaughter, leaving the scene of an incident resulting in death, and other offenses. He is currently in jail without bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 12. The loss of Peter Morris has deeply affected his family and the community, leaving a void that will never be filled.