Weather Alert  

ELEVATED RISK OF FIRE SPREAD Increasing northwest winds and drying low levels will create conditions more conducive for fire spread today into early this evening. Relative humidity is expected to decrease to near 25 to 30 percent this afternoon into early this evening, while wind gusts increase to 35 to 45 mph. An isolated gust to 50 mph will be possible. These conditions would likely aid fire spread if ignition occurs. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to exercise caution if handling any potential ignition sources, such as machinery, cigarettes, or matches. The annual statewide burn ban is in effect until May 14. No burn permits are issued. For more information about wildfire danger and wildfire prevention, please visit the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website at http://dec.ny.gov/environmental- protection/wildfires. This forecast considers meteorological, fuel, and land conditions and has been developed in coordination with state fire and land management officials. Listen to NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio or visit our web Site at http://weather.gov/nyc for further details or updates.

Queens Man Driving with Hood Covering Windshield Charged with Vehicle Theft, NCPD Says

LongIsland.com

Reports: Rayon Gounga, 20, fled on foot during a vehicle stop and was soon apprehended by a K-9 unit.

Print Email

Photo by: LI.com News Team

Merrick, NY - The First Squad detectives report the arrest of a South Ozone Park man for an incident that occurred on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at 10:15 p.m. in Merrick.
 
According to detectives, officers observed the defendant Rayon Gounga, 20, operating a black Infiniti eastbound on the Southern State Parkway with the hood blocking the windshield. Officers conducted a Vehicle and Traffic Law stop on Merrick Avenue. During the investigation, the defendant exited the vehicle and fled on foot, running across all six lanes of the Parkway. 
 
With the assistance of K-9 the defendant was located hiding in the wooded area near the parkway and placed under arrest. During the subsequent investigation it was determined the defendant had given false information to the officers and had a suspended driver’s license and an outstanding warrant for Grand Larceny of an Auto from Baldwin. It was also determined that the vehicle he was driving during this incident was confirmed to have been reported stolen as well.
 
Rayon Gounga has been charged with two (2) counts of Grand Larceny 4th Degree, False Personation, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 2nd Degree and multiple traffic infractions. He was arraigned on Sunday, April 7, 2019 at First District Court, 99 Main Street in Hempstead.
 
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.