HPP– A man was taken into custody on Monday after reportedly driving his SUV along train tracks in a reckless joyride that was captured on video, culminating in the vehicle catching fire, according to officials.
A startling video shared on social media captures a black Honda SUV navigating the tracks during a bumpy twilight journey on Sunday near the Elmont-UBS Arena station, causing delays throughout the LIRR system.
The SUV struggles with the tracks, yet the driver remains undeterred, confidently cruising past the videographer and continuing on their journey.
Basilio Hidalgo from Brooklyn took an unusual path that concluded at Bellerose Station, covering a distance of at least half a mile of track, as reported by the MTA.
The thrilling adventure took a dramatic turn as the front of the vehicle burst into flames following severe damage to the tires and engine.
The Floral Park Fire Department extinguished the fire and utilized a specialized crane to clear the vehicle from the tracks.
Train service on the Hempstead Branch has been halted, leading to considerable delays on the Ronkonkoma, Port Jefferson, and Oyster Bay branches.
Hidalgo, 40, faces serious charges including first-degree reckless endangerment, third-degree criminal trespassing, and driving under the influence.