Suspicious Driver Spotted at Wood Park

The Commack community was notified Tuesday of a suspicious driver at Wood Park Primary School.

According to an alert posted on the district's website by Superintendent Donald James, a security officer assigned to the school noticed a vehicle parked in the front driveway of the school during the lunch and recess period on April 2.

James stated that the security officer informed the occupant of the vehicle, who was described as a white male, approximately 50 years old, balding, with black hair and slight beard, that he could not park his white, four-door, 2007 Infiniti sedan in the driveway. The man stated that he was making a phone call. However, the security officer noted that the driver was not speaking on a cell phone.

The superintendent said that Suffolk County Police were notified and reported to the school.

"They took an official report as well as all the identifying information related to the man and vehicle, including the license plate number. Further, all security personnel and other pertinent staff in the District are aware of the facts regarding the driver and the vehicle," he said.

The district reminded parents to review the following safety precautions:

1. When walking to and from school or in the community, especially at night, children should walk with a friend or adult whenever possible;
2. All individuals should wear white or light colored clothing at night to increase visibility;
3. If your child has a cell phone, make sure it’s charged before he/she leaves the house, and know where your child will be at all times;
4. Remind your children to call 911 in case of any emergency or if an unsafe situation occurs;
5. When children are at home alone, doors should be locked at all times; and
6. Talk to your children and offer them advice and guidance on how to handle confrontations particularly with strangers. For example, run from/do not speak to strangers, and other safety-related topics.

"The District’s main concern is the safety of our students and in conjunction with our security personnel and other staff, we will continue to do everything in our power to assure student and staff safety at all times. Should you encounter any suspicious persons on school grounds, or anyplace else, please contact the police immediately," James said.