Jose Santiago Jr. dies in fatal Mamakating car crash on Route 17
Fatal Route 17 accident in Mamakating claims life of Officer Jose Santiago Jr. – Obituary
A tragic accident on Route 17 in Mamakating on Saturday evening resulted in the death of 65-year-old Washingtonville police officer, Jose Santiago Jr.
The crash occurred around 5:20 p.m. when Robert Cromer, 62, of Liberty, allegedly fell asleep while driving a 2019 Mercedes Sprinter Van and crossed the median, colliding head-on with Santiago’s 2021 Hyundai.
Santiago was pronounced dead at the scene, while his wife, Blanca Santiago, 64, was transported to Garnet Medical Center. The couple was well-known and respected in their community. Santiago, a retired NYPD officer, was remembered fondly by local leaders and residents.
