Ariel Salgado Arrested After Driving Identical Car on Long Island

Ariel Salgado, 35, left a bar in Patchogue, Long Island, while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Believing she had entered her own vehicle, she got into a gray 2020 Mazda CX‑5 that was virtually identical to her car and drove away. Police stopped her a short distance later on Waverly Avenue after observing her speeding and noting the strong odor of alcohol. Field‑sobriety tests were failed, and a license‑plate check revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen by its rightful owner. The car was returned to the owner, who chose not to press charges. Salgado was arrested and charged with driving while impaired, speeding, and other traffic violations. No injuries were reported.