ID Released For Man Struck, Killed By Allegedly Drunk Driver Outside Woodbury Diner

The identity has been released of a man who was killed after exiting a popular Long Island diner when he was struck by a drunk driver, according to authorities.

The diner at 7980 Jericho Turnpike Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury, and the suspect, Willem Specht.
Photo Credit: *Google Maps street view/Nassau County Police*

Joe Lombardi

01/19/2023 9:40 a.m.

Officers responded to the parking lot of On Parade Diner in Woodbury, located at 7980 Jericho Turnpike, at about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18.

Willem Specht, age 62, of Woodbury, entered his gray 2004 Infiniti sedan before backing up southbound and striking a man who just exited the diner, Nassau County Police said.

The victim, now identified as Joseph Devito, age 61, of Wantagh. suffered severe trauma and was transported by Nassau County Ambulance to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 3:45 p.m.

Specht was arrested and charged with:

Driving while intoxicated,
Second-degree reckless endangerment,
Second-degree assault
Second-degree vehicular manslaughter,
Second-degree manslaughter.

He's due to be arraigned on Thursday, Jan. 19 at First District Court in Hempstead.

Earlier report: Victim Who Just Exited Popular Woodbury Diner Struck, Killed By Drunk Driver: Police

This continues to be a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.

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