Police: 1 dead after SUV crashes into river between Port Chester and Greenwich, Conn.
PORT CHESTER, N.Y. -- Police are investigating a fatal crash in Westchester County.
A car launched into a river that runs between Port Chester and Greenwich, Conn., early Thursday morning. The passenger in that vehicle survived, but the driver did not.
Chopper 2 captured the heartbreaking scene over the Byram River. The SUV the driver died in was removed by a crane, after being under 10 feet of water.
Port Chester police say just before 2 a.m. a Jeep was traveling at a high rate of speed when it came to the end of Purdy Avenue, which is a dead end. Chief Chris Rosabella said it struck a boulder and launched into the air over a chain link fence, through trees and into the water.
"When they recovered the vehicle, it was upside down and it was actually settled into the mud to the bottom of the river up to the door handles," Rosabella said.
Police said the passenger, 36-year-old Edy Payes Sanchez, of Norwalk, survived.
Officers responded to several 911 calls. Sanchez told them the driver was still in the river.
Police said divers tried to save the driver, but he was still in the vehicle and found deceased.
"I mean, I feel bad for the family. That's all I can think about, whoever's parents have to get the phone call," witness Brian McEvoy said.
CBS New York asked the police chief if there was any indication they tried to slow down.
"No indication, full speed ahead," Rosabella said.
Port Chester police say the driver was 31-year-old Juan Garcia-Suchite of Port Chester.
In an effort to save him, the Port Chester Fire Department had backup from divers from New Rochelle and Greenwich.
"It's just a horrible, horrible thing that happened today," McEvoy said.
Police said toxicology reports will determine whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash.
The passenger was interviewed by detectives. CBS New York was unable to reach him for comment.
