ST. JAMES, N.Y. — A Nassau County police officer was killed in a devastating traffic collision early Saturday morning in Suffolk County, authorities confirmed.
Officer Patricia Espinosa, 42, was driving westbound on Route 347 shortly after 6 a.m. on January 31 when her vehicle was struck at the intersection of Alexander Avenue in St. James. Suffolk County Police said the crash occurred when a pickup truck traveling northbound failed to stop for a red light and collided with Espinosa’s car.
Investigators identified the other vehicle as a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado driven by 20-year-old Matthew Smith of Hauppauge. Smith and his passenger, 25-year-old John Andali of Centereach, were both transported to the hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Smith has since been charged with driving while intoxicated, police said.
Espinosa was rushed to Stony Brook University Hospital following the crash but was later pronounced dead.
The loss has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community. The Detectives’ and Superior Police Benevolent Association released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the death of the Fifth Precinct officer, noting that colleagues are grieving and extending condolences to Espinosa’s loved ones.
Officer Espinosa joined the Nassau County Police Department in 2017 after previously serving as a New York State correctional officer for four years. She emigrated from Ecuador at age 21 and learned English after arriving in the United States, building a career in public service that earned respect from peers and supervisors alike.
She is survived by her husband, Nassau County Police Officer Francisco Malaga, their daughter, and her brother, Philadelphia Police Officer Christian Almeida.
In honor of Espinosa’s service and sacrifice, police unions announced that flags will be flown at half-staff beginning Monday and will remain lowered through the time of her burial.
Both vehicles involved in the collision were impounded as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities said additional details may be released as the case continues to be reviewed.