A tragic incident unfolded in Deer Park, Long Island, when an SUV crashed into Hawaii Nail & Spa, resulting in four fatalities and nine injuries. The driver, Steven Schwally, was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. The incident occurred on Friday (June 28) afternoon, shortly before 5 p.m.
Schwally, 64, was allegedly driving a Chevy Traverse at a high speed through a parking lot when he crossed over Grand Boulevard. His vehicle continued through the parking lot of the nail salon and crashed through the front window. Witnesses reported that the SUV almost came out through the back of the salon.
All of the victims were inside the salon at the time of the crash. Some were trapped and had to be extricated by emergency services. Three women and a man died at the scene, while eight of the injured victims were taken by ambulance to local hospitals, and one was airlifted.
Among those killed was Emilia Rennhack, 30, an off-duty New York City police officer. The New York Police Benevolent Association confirmed her death on social media.
Schwally was transported to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He will be arraigned at a later date. Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney's office said Schwally, who remained hospitalized Saturday, will be arraigned later.