News Summary

A devastating two-vehicle crash on the Taconic State Parkway resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including beloved football coach Robert Violante. The incident occurred when a van crossed the center median, colliding with Violante’s car, ultimately leading to significant injuries and fatalities. The Bergenfield community mourns the loss of a dedicated mentor and coach, whose impact extended beyond the football field.

Tragic Crash on Taconic State Parkway Claims Four Lives

New Castle, NY – It is with heavy hearts that we report a devastating two-vehicle crash that occurred on the Taconic State Parkway on May 14, leaving a community in mourning and raising questions about safety on the roads. This unfortunate incident claimed the lives of four individuals, including the beloved football coach of Bergenfield High School, Robert Violante.

Details of the Fatal Accident

The collision unfolded near mile marker 9.2 when a 2014 Ram ProMaster van, driven by a 50-year-old man from Long Branch, New Jersey, crossed the center median. In a split second, the van entered the northbound lanes, crashing into Violante’s 2024 Honda Accord. The impact was severe, resulting in the van overturning and subsequently catching fire.

Tragically, three passengers in the van – a 20-year-old man from Neptune, a 34-year-old from Long Branch, and a 45-year-old from Asbury Park – were all pronounced dead at the scene. Coach Violante, aged 45, was taken to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The driver of the van is now in critical condition at Westchester Medical Center, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this horrific event.

A Community in Mourning

Bergenfield High School, where Coach Violante dedicated 14 seasons to leading the football team, is grappling with the sudden and unexpected loss of an extraordinary mentor. Over the course of 15 years at the school, he became a father figure and close friend to many students, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. The community has expressed its sadness and disbelief at the news, coming together to support the Violante family during this incredibly tough time.

Remembering Coach V

Robert “Coach V” Violante was more than just a football coach; he was a beacon of hope and strength within the community. Renowned for his unwavering dedication, compassion, and ability to form lasting bonds with students, he transformed the lives of countless young athletes. Under his leadership, the football team flourished, and he also took on the role of a track and field coach, nurturing talent and building confidence in aspiring athletes.

Violante’s journey began in Somers High School, where he not only showcased his athletic prowess as a quarterback and a basketball player, but also developed a strong commitment to sports that would follow him into his collegiate years at both Iona College and the University of Delaware. His coaching career included a significant stint at Dobbs Ferry High School before he returned to his roots in Bergenfield, where his influence on young players was truly unparalleled.

A Lasting Legacy

The outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and the local sports community for Violante reflects the significant impact he made. As a lifelong resident of Somers, he was actively involved in supporting his nephews’ athletic endeavors, further emphasizing his dedication to not just coaching, but also mentoring the next generation.

As the investigation into the crash continues, many are left wondering how something so tragic could happen. The loss of Coach Violante is felt deeply not only among his players but throughout the entire community, which has rallied together in these trying times. The legacy of Coach V goes beyond the football field; it lives on in each life he touched.

In times like these, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the bonds that tie us together. The community of Somers and Bergenfield will continue to grieve, remembering a man who was dedicated to making a difference, and the lasting impact he made as a mentor, father figure, and friend.

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