A suspected drunk driver slammed his car into a nail salon Friday afternoon in Deer Park, New York killing 4 people, including an off-duty New York Police Department (NYPD) officer, FOX5 reported.
Police said that Steve Schwally was racing through the parking lot of the Hawaii Nail & Spa when his 2020 Chevy Traverse crashed into the nail salon, trapping several people and requiring one victim to be airlifted to the hospital, according to FOX5.
Four people were killed, including NYPD officer Emilia Rennhack, 30, and another 9 victims were hospitalized, the outlet reported. (RELATED: One Killed, Five Injured After Car Plows Through Emergency Room, Video Shows)
We’re learning more about the four people killed in a Long Island nail salon Friday and the charges the driver that crashed into the building is now facing. @KristieKNews spoke to longtime customers who call the salon a staple in the community. https://t.co/CLGAtdwxnY
— CBS New York (@CBSNewYork) June 29, 2024
A poster outside the nail salon announced that a candlelight vigil will be held for the victims of the tragedy Monday at 7 pm, while the funeral for officer Rennhack is scheduled for July 6 at the New Hyde Park Funeral Home, FOX5 reported.
Officer Rennhack was at the salon getting her nails done before a fellow officer’s wedding, according to the New York Post.
“The NYPD mourns the loss of @NYPD102Pct Police Officer Emilia Rennhack,” the NYC PBA posted on X. “She was tragically killed yesterday while off-duty on Long Island. Please keep her family, friends, and co-workers in your thoughts. Rest in Peace.”
An outpouring of sympathy appeared in the comments section of the NYC PBA post announcing Officer Rennhack’s death, with one user posting, “My deepest sympathy to everyone who has been affected by the loss of this public servant and the other victims of this tragedy.”
Retired New York Police Captain Ralph Monaco wrote, “Our prayers, thoughts, and condolences to our sister P.O. Eminia Rennhack’s family, friends, and colleagues…May she Rest In Peace.”
Police said that Schwally, who is currently recovering at a nearby hospital and facing DWI charges, was partially conscious when first responders arrived at the crash site, according to FOX5.
