New York Islanders’ National Anthem Singer Reportedly Escapes After Shocking Hit & Run Incident

According to The Post, the Long Island man who was detained this week in connection with a deadly hit-and-run incident was not only a music instructor at an elementary school but also frequently sang the national song for the New York Islanders.

Long Island News 12 reports that Jonathan Wibben, 34, was charged with a felony by Suffolk County Police for leaving the scene after he fatally struck 47-year-old pedestrian Peter Williams with his SUV in Port Jefferson Station on June 2.

Williams was apparently out getting a slice of pizza when he was struck by another vehicle.

The other motorist did not face any charges and remained at the scene.

Williams was declared deceased at the spot.

Wibben of Coram got his “dream” job of singing the Star Spangled Banner before Islander home games at UBS Arena a year before the tragic crash.

“Getting to sing the National Anthem for the @ny_islander’s season opener Thursday night at @ubsarena was a dream come true!” He wrote on October 15, 2022, on X. “Not only that, I am so humbled and excited to announce that I am the official National Anthem singer for the New York Islanders for the 2022-2023 season!”

Over the next seven months, Wibben is seen singing the anthem in pictures posted to his Facebook, X, and Instagram accounts.

In March 2023, he was also seen performing a song for the New York Mets at Clover Park in Florida during a spring training game.

Wibben’s tenure as an elementary school music instructor in the Bethpage School District, which he has held since 2011, persisted after the conclusion of his musical career with the Islanders in May 2023, as per his LinkedIn profile.

David Schneider, the district superintendent, stated in a statement that he had been “removed from the classroom pending the outcome of the investigation.”

On Tuesday, Wibben was arraigned and given his freedom on his own recognizance after entering a not-guilty plea. His court hearing is set for February 27th.

No information about their investigation or the evidence they had against Wibben was made public by the police.

“Jonathan is grateful to have served with the Islanders. He is loved and supported by many and remains heartbroken over this tragic loss of life,” The Post was informed by Wibben’s attorney, William Petrillo.

More News