Overview
- Suffolk police say Matthew Smith, 20, ran a red light at Alexander Avenue and Route 347 in Saint James around 6:06 a.m. on Jan. 31, striking Patricia Espinosa’s car.
- Espinosa, 42, was pronounced dead at Stony Brook University Hospital, while Smith and passenger John Andali were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
- Both vehicles were impounded, Smith’s arraignment has not been announced, and investigators asked anyone with information to call 631-852-6553.
- Nassau County officials and police unions offered tributes, flags were ordered to half-staff starting Monday, and visitation is scheduled Wednesday at St. James Funeral Home.
- A GoFundMe organized by the Nassau County Police Hispanic Society raised nearly $170,000 within a day to support Espinosa’s husband and 2-year-old daughter.