Woman arrested for hit-and-run incident resulting in grandfather’s death on Long Island.
A Long Island woman has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a 76-year-old man earlier this month, according to an announcement by local police. Heidy Zelaya Almendarez, a 24-year-old resident of Wyandanch, was arraigned on charges related to the November 8 collision involving Octavio Dejesus Espinal Sime, a grandfather from West Babylon.
The incident occurred in Freeport as Espinal Sime was attempting to cross the street. Eyewitness accounts indicate that he was struck by a light-colored sedan, which subsequently fled the scene. Emergency responders transported Espinal Sime to a local hospital with critical injuries. Despite initial medical efforts, he was pronounced brain dead a few days later, with his family reporting that he was walking to the Long Island Rail Road station after a day’s work.
Investigators have provided insights into the ongoing investigation, revealing that surveillance footage captured Almendarez concealing her vehicle in her backyard shortly after the impact. This evidence was significant in leading to her arrest. She has been charged with leaving the scene of an incident resulting in death, as well as tampering with physical evidence. Following her arraignment, Almendarez was released on a ,000 cash bail.
The tragic death of Espinal Sime was confirmed by the police on November 20, making a profound impact on his family and the community. In a poignant note, it has been reported that Espinal Sime was an organ donor. His liver was successfully transplanted, saving the life of another individual in Texas—a testament to his legacy and the lasting impact he has left behind.
As investigations continue, the police have not disclosed specific details regarding the make and model of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. The case highlights the ongoing issues of pedestrian safety and the legal consequences associated with hit-and-run incidents, raising awareness of the responsibilities drivers hold toward pedestrians in their vicinity. The community awaits further developments as the legal proceedings unfold.
This tragic event underscores the critical need for improved road safety measures to protect vulnerable pedestrians, particularly in urban areas where traffic incidents are prevalent. The prosecution will work diligently to ensure justice is served in this heartbreaking case, reflecting the broader societal obligation to uphold accountability in traffic-related offenses.
