Newsday, Patch, New York Daily News, News 12 - Long Island, Daily Voice, Greater Long Island, LI Press|3 minute read

Driving Under the Influence: A Long Island Superintendent's Reckless Night

Let’s not beat around the bush—when you mix booze and a car, you’re playing a high-stakes game of Russian roulette. And it seems that Michael J. Hynes, the now-former superintendent of Port Washington Schools, decided to throw caution to the wind, with disastrous results. Buckle up, folks; this tale from Sayville will make you cringe.

The Crash Heard 'Round Long Island

On a fateful Sunday night, Hynes got behind the wheel after indulging a bit too much. The Suffolk police report is a stark reminder of the havoc that can ensue: he crashed into a motorcyclist, leaving that poor soul seriously injured. Newsday and Patch reported the grim details, but let’s not sugarcoat it—this isn’t just a simple accident. It’s a crime that could have easily been avoided.

What the Hell Was He Thinking?

Seriously, what goes through someone’s mind when they decide to drive under the influence? Maybe Hynes thought he was invincible, or perhaps he just didn’t give a damn about the safety of others. Either way, the repercussions of his actions are nothing short of catastrophic. The motorcyclist was hospitalized, and Hynes? Well, he’s now facing a slew of charges that will haunt him long after the hangover fades.

From Superintendent to Suspect

Hynes has had a rocky career, to say the least. He resigned from his previous position as Pat-Med's chief of schools back in 2019, and just this month, he was set to say goodbye to Port Washington Schools. But now? His legacy is marred by this reckless act. The community is left reeling, questioning how someone in such a respected position could stoop so low.

The Aftermath: Immediate Consequences

As the dust settles, the Port Washington School District is scrambling to gather information and determine next steps. Hynes was promptly removed from his post, proving that even the mightiest can fall from grace. The district's future now hangs in the balance, all thanks to one man’s poor choices.

Lessons Unlearned

Every year, we hear the same tired stories about DWI incidents across the nation. Yet, here we are again, talking about another preventable tragedy. This isn’t just about Hynes; it’s about a culture that often treats drinking and driving as a minor infraction. Spoiler alert: it’s not. Each time someone decides to get behind the wheel after a few drinks, they’re playing a dangerous game with lives—both theirs and others. The consequences can be dire, and this incident is just another reminder of that harsh reality.

What Can We Do?

It’s time to step up and start making some noise. Communities need to come together and create a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving. Education programs, stricter penalties, and a cultural shift around alcohol consumption are essential. Let’s not wait for another accident to happen before we take action.

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