Scott K. Berberian Death Obituary: North Syracuse man killed in I-90 crash involving alleged impaired driver

It is with deep sadness that authorities and the community are mourning the loss of Scott K. Berberian, 56, following a tragic late-night crash on the New York State Thruway that claimed his life. His passing has left family members, friends, and all who knew him grieving a sudden and devastating loss.

According to the New York State Police, the fatal collision occurred Friday night on Interstate 90 in the town of Stafford. Troopers responded to the scene at approximately 8:53 p.m. after reports of a serious crash involving two eastbound vehicles.

Investigators say Scott K. Berberian was driving a GMC pickup truck when it was struck from behind by a BMW traveling in the same direction. The force of the impact caused the pickup to overturn, resulting in Berberian being ejected onto the roadway. Despite rapid emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities identified the driver of the BMW as Patrick J. Hastings, 67, of Churchville. According to police, Hastings showed signs of impairment at the scene and later failed field sobriety tests. A breath test reportedly indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%. He was arrested and charged with second-degree vehicular manslaughter, driving while intoxicated, and additional traffic violations. He has been remanded to the Genesee County Jail for centralized arraignment.

The New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, working alongside the Genesee County District Attorney’s Office, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials have stated that the investigation remains ongoing as they work to fully reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the fatal impact.

For those who knew him, Scott K. Berberian’s death is being felt as a sudden and heartbreaking loss. He is remembered as the victim of a tragic roadway incident that unfolded in an instant, leaving loved ones to grapple with shock, grief, and unanswered questions.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding how the crash occurred and ensuring accountability through the legal process. At the same time, family and friends are left to mourn a life that ended far too suddenly on a highway that night.

Scott K. Berberian will be deeply missed and remembered by those whose lives he touched, as they navigate the painful reality of his loss.