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crime1d ago
Drunk driver who plowed through Long Island nail salon, killing NYPD officer and 3 others, learns fate
- Steven Schwally was found guilty on four counts of murder and related charges for the Deer Park nail-salon crash.
- The crash occurred in June 2024 when Schwally’s SUV hit Hawaii Nail & Spa at nearly 80 mph, killing an off-duty NYPD officer and three others.
- Prosecutors said Schwally consumed alcohol for more than five hours before the crash and had a blood alcohol level well above the legal limit.
- The district attorney said drunken driving is a deadly crime, and the verdict sends a message to the community.
- In sentencing, Schwally faces up to 25 years to life on the top murder charge, with additional charges to be considered.
- The crash killed off-duty NYPD officer Emilia Rennhack, and three others including the salon owner and two employees.
- Schwally’s defense argued a leg disability affected his ability to move his foot from the gas pedal.
- Investigators described video showing Schwally’s car launching into the storefront as the incident unfolded.
- The trial followed a jury decision on multiple charges, including murder in the second degree and aggravated vehicular homicide.
- The incident prompted reactions from law enforcement and community members who sought accountability for the deaths.
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