Cab driver killed in violent hit and run in Franklin Square

FRANKLIN SQUARE, Long Island (WABC) -- Nassau County Police say 23-year-old Duke Obule was arrested about an hour after running from the scene of a deadly crash on Long Island.

Obule was driving a 2016 BMW on Hempstead Turnpike at a high rate of speed when he hit a 2009 Chevrolet taxi. His charges include second degree manslaughter, operating a vehicle without a licence, and DWI.

Investigators say the crash pushed the taxi from the left eastbound lane across two westbound lanes onto the sidewalk at Lincoln Road and into a power pole. The taxi driver died as a result of the crash.

Michael Rochet, a dispatcher at Ollie's Taxi and Airport Service, who was not working at the time, says he was devastated to learn about the death of his friend.

"He was a good driver, worked hard, and it seemed like he really loved his kids," said Rochet.

Rochet says his friend had arrived early for a 5 a.m. shift when the crash took place.

"This guy was just going into work, and his life is over because somebody else is behind the wheel going this fast," he adds.

The speed limit on the road is 30 mph. Witnesses believe Obule was traveling at least twice that.