Heidy Almendarez, 24, of Wyandanch, was taken into custody by Nassau County Police Monday, Dec. 29, on suspicion of leaving the scene of a fatal incident and tampering with physical evidence, the agency said.
Her arrest stems from a crash that happened around 1:50 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8, at the intersection of North Grove Street and Brooklyn Avenue in Freeport, as Daily Voice reported.
The victim, later identified as 76-year-old Octavio Dejesus Espinal Sime, of West Babylon, was crossing the street when he was struck by a light-colored sedan. The driver fled the scene without stopping and continued southbound.
Espinal Sime was transported by a Northwell Health ambulance to a nearby hospital, where he was initially listed in critical condition before later dying from his injuries, police said.
Almendarez was arraigned Monday, Dec. 29, at First District Court in Hempstead.
Following Espinal Sime’s death, family members launched a GoFundMe campaign describing him as a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who worked hard to support his family. The fundraiser is seeking assistance with funeral and memorial expenses.
The Nassau County Police Homicide Squad continues to investigate the crash. Anyone with information is urged to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All calls are confidential.
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