Nassau County mourns officer killed by alleged drunk driver while going to work

Описание: The Nassau County community came together on Thursday to mourn a fallen officer, holding a funeral to honor the life of Patricia Espinosa, which was cut short last weekend by a drunk driver.

"We're all heartbroken," Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said, flanked by County Executive Bruce Blakeman. "This is a tragedy that didn't have to happen. This young lady went to go to work that morning, to serve the people of Nassau County, and her life was tragically taken for her."

The 42-year-old was killed at about 6 a.m. Saturday morning in St. James after police said an alleged drunk driver ran a red light on Route 347 and struck her as she drove to work. According to Ryder, Espinosa's husband—who is also a cop—was the first to respond to the scene.

Espinosa was remembered as a happy person who loved her family, her job and had a beautiful smile. She is survived by an 18-month-old daughter, who friends and family said she adored.

"It took her a long time to be a mother, and she treasured every single second," one mourner told 1010 WINS.

🎤 Sophia Hall reports

📹 Sophia Hall

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