Four individuals, including an off-duty NYPD officer, tragically lost their lives in a devastating car crash involving a suspected drunk driver who plowed into a nail salon on Long Island.
An off-duty New York Police Department (NYPD) officer was among four victims killed Friday afternoon when a suspected drunk driver crashed his SUV into a Long Island nail salon, leaving a trail of devastation and heartbreak.
Identified as Emilia Rennhack, 30, the beloved officer served in the NYPD's 102nd precinct. Her untimely passing sent shockwaves through the department and the community she dedicatedly served.
Tragic Loss: Beloved NYPD Officer Among Victims in Fatal Long Island Crash
"The NYPD mourns the loss of @NYPD102Pct Police Officer Emilia Rennhack," the department confirmed in a poignant tweet. "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."
According to the New York Post, Rennhack was at the Hawaii Nail Salon in Deer Park, getting her nails done for an upcoming wedding. As she and others enjoyed their time, tragedy struck with unforgiving force. The salon was bustling with patrons when a Chevrolet Traverse SUV, driven by 56-year-old Steven Schwally, crashed into the establishment at an alarming speed.
Tragic Loss: Beloved NYPD Officer Among Victims in Fatal Long Island Crash
The impact was catastrophic. The SUV tore through the front of the salon, leaving a gaping hole in its wake and shattering the lives of those inside. In the aftermath of the chaos, Rennhack was pronounced deceased at the scene, along with three other victims: Jiancai Chen, 37, Yan Xu, 41, and Meizi Zhang, 50.
Nine others were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention, including a 12-year-old girl. Schwally himself was transported to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and will face arraignment at a later date.
Tragic Loss: Beloved NYPD Officer Among Victims in Fatal Long Island Crash
Eric Perez, an eyewitness to the horrific incident, spoke to Fox News Digital, describing the chilling sound that shattered the afternoon's tranquility.
"Sounded like glass shattering," Perez said, his voice still etched with the shock and horror of the experience. "Like nothing I've heard before."
Tragic Loss: Beloved NYPD Officer Among Victims in Fatal Long Island Crash
Surveillance footage of the crash captured the devastating aftermath, showing the SUV embedded deep within the salon, its presence a chilling testament to the force and recklessness of the impact.
The community has rallied around the victims and their bereaved families, offering heartfelt condolences and support. The New York Police Benevolent Association (PBA) expressed its sorrow and solidarity in a heartfelt statement.
"Our hearts are breaking following the tragic loss of our 102 Pct. sister P.O. Emilia Rennhack in an off-duty incident yesterday," the PBA wrote on Facebook. "Please join us in praying for her family, friends, and coworkers. Funeral arrangements to follow. #RIP"
Rennhack had served with the NYPD since 2018, her dedication and service earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and community members alike.
Suffolk County Police confirmed that Schwally has been taken into custody and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). The tragic consequences of his alleged impaired driving have left an immeasurable void in the lives of countless individuals.
Investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the fatal crash, seeking answers and accountability in the face of such senseless loss. The community remains in mourning, grappling with the unimaginable pain and devastation caused by this avoidable tragedy.
