Tonawanda, NY (WBEN) "Disbelief" is how veteran Town of Tonawanda Police investigators can best describe the incidents that occurred Friday night in the town that ultimately led to a crash that took the lives of two 21-year old victims from North Tonawanda. Police say the driver who died in the crash with his girlfriend drove at speeds of more than 100 mph at times.
"I've never seen an engine block sheared off a vehicle before this incident", said Tonawanda Police Chief Jim Stauffiger who has been with the department for 25 years.
When Lichtenberger sped through a red light at Military and Sheridan, Stauffiger says Lichtenberger was going at least 100mph. Lichtenberger and Ameno were not wearing seatbelts according to police, and were ejected from their car after a collision with a second vehicle at the intersection. In all, six vehicles were involved.
"Clearly the behavior was unusual", said Chief Stauffiger of Lichtenberger. "There's nothing to indicate right now right now that alcohoil or drugs were involved", adds Stauffiger. Autopsies on both deceased victims are being conducted and results are not expected to be known for weeks or months.
Three other people were hurt; Stauffiger says they've since been released from the hospital.
A BB gun was found at the scene. Police say they believe that belonged to Lichtenberger.