SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Carlos Orellana Mata, a 36-year-old resident of East Northport, pleaded guilty to Aggravated Vehicular Homicide in Suffolk County. District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced the guilty plea following an incident that resulted in the death of 22-year-old Lenel Umana Guitierrez Lopez, also from East Northport.
The fatal crash occurred on March 18, 2023, when Orellana Mata, driving under the influence, collided with the back of a tractor-trailer on Jericho Turnpike in Elwood. According to the DA, Orellana Mata’s blood alcohol concentration was over twice the legal limit at the time of the accident. Emergency responders found him in the driver’s seat displaying signs of intoxication, and subsequent tests confirmed a BAC of .15% and later .20%.
Orellana Mata, who was speeding over 80 mph before the crash, faces three to nine years in prison. He pleaded guilty to additional charges, including Manslaughter in the Second Degree and Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for August 7, 2024, before County Court Judge Stephen L. Braslow.