A former superintendent from a Long Island school district was arrested for driving under the influence after causing severe injuries to a motorcyclist in a weekend accident, according to authorities.
Dr. Michael Hynes, 53 – who served as the Superintendent of Schools for the Port Washington Union Free School District – left 63-year-old Alberto Fernandez with critical injuries following the crash around 9 p.m. on Sunday in Sayville, as reported by Suffolk County Police.
Hynes was operating his Honda Civic northbound on Railroad Avenue when he attempted to make a left turn onto Depot Street, colliding with Fernandez, who was riding south on a Harley-Davidson, authorities indicated.
Fernandez, from Sayville, was rushed to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore to receive treatment for his serious injuries, police confirmed.
Hynes, who exhibited “bloodshot glassy eyes, slurred speech, and unsteady movements,” faces a misdemeanor charge for driving while intoxicated, according to police reports and a criminal complaint.
This incident represents Hynes’ first offense, and he was released on his own recognizance during his arraignment on Monday at First District Court in Central Islip.
In a message to families, the school district announced that Dr. Christopher Shields would take over as acting superintendent “to maintain stability and continuity in our district during this time.”
“We remain committed to keeping you informed and will provide updates as more information becomes available,” the statement added.
It was previously announced that Hynes was to resign from his position, effective December 13, as reported by Port Washington News.
“An opportunity has arisen, which is an experience I have not had in my career in public education,” Hynes explained to the publication earlier this month, without elaborating on his future plans.
“I believe this experience will be beneficial for me and my family.”
Hynes is a Fulbright Specialist and serves as an associate professor of education and leadership at Long Island University and Stony Brook University, as noted in his online biography.
He was featured in the documentary “Chasing Childhood” and is the author of the book “Staying Grounded: 12 Principles for Transforming School Leader Effectiveness.”
