An off-duty New York Police Department officer was among the four people who died when a suspected drunk driver crashed into a nail salon on Friday on Long Island.
The officer, Emilia Rennhack, was 30 years old and lived in Brooklyn. Her husband, Carl, is a detective with the 102nd Precinct.
In a Facebook post, the detective’s foundation stated that their hearts are broken following the incident.
The police union also posted a message on its Facebook page, saying that it was mourning the loss of Emilia, who was an off-duty officer.
According to the police, Steven Schwally, of Dix Hills, was speeding when he crashed his Chevy Traverse into the window of a Hawaii Nail & Spa in Deer Park at around 4:30 pm on Friday.
Schwally was charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving while intoxicated.
He was taken to a hospital for treatment of his injuries, and three people died at the scene. Eight other individuals were taken to different hospitals.
The identities of the victims have not yet been released. According to the fire officials, Schwally was reportedly semi conscious when he crashed into the salon.
The incident occurred in a strip mall in Deer Park. Officials from the fire department said that the crash was a heartbreaking incident that will affect the entire community.
It was a tragic incident that happened during this time of year, as it occurred at a time when many people were celebrating.
According to witnesses, the man was trying to pass another vehicle in the parking lot of Kohl’s before he crashed into the nail salon.
People inside the salon reportedly started screaming and yelling.
A witness said that she saw the car driving erratically before the crash.
According to one of the salon’s customers, she was stunned by the incident.
The suspect, who was reportedly in a hospital, was scheduled to appear in court later on Saturday.
The office of the district attorney stated that Schwally will be charged with vehicular manslaughter.
