A 20-year-old Long Island man is now facing upgraded charges following a devastating drunk-driving crash that claimed the life of an off-duty Nassau County police officer earlier this year.
Prosecutors announced in court that Matthew Smith has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide after new evidence allegedly revealed reckless behavior leading up to the deadly collision. Authorities say the crash occurred on January 31 at the intersection of Alexander Avenue and Route 347 in Saint James.
According to prosecutors, Smith sped through a red light at full throttle before slamming into the vehicle driven by Officer Patricia Espinosa, who was on her way to work at the time. Officials say Smith reached speeds as high as 125 miles per hour shortly before the impact. His blood alcohol content was reportedly measured at .20 — more than twice the legal limit.
During a court appearance in Riverhead, Smith pleaded not guilty to the upgraded charges. He appeared in a wheelchair as prosecutors described video evidence that allegedly captured his behavior both before and during the incident.
Authorities say surveillance footage from a bar in Patchogue shows Smith being warned by patrons not to drive. Prosecutors claim he ignored the warnings and even “dangled his keys” in front of others despite concerns about his condition. Additional video taken by his passenger allegedly shows Smith driving erratically — weaving between lanes, running red lights and shouting at other drivers in the moments before the crash.
The passenger in the vehicle suffered serious injuries, including a head injury and spinal fractures.
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney described the incident as a troubling example of dangerous behavior on local roadways, emphasizing that such conduct would not be tolerated.
Officer Espinosa leaves behind her husband, siblings and an 18-month-old daughter. Nassau PBA President Tommy Shevlin stated that the crash was not simply an accident but reflected what he described as a “total disregard for human life,” adding that accountability is necessary to prevent similar tragedies.
Court records indicate that Smith has accumulated more than a dozen traffic violations in the past. Officials also revealed previous domestic disturbances involving Smith and his family, including an instance where his father reportedly sought to have him arrested after an alleged altercation.
If convicted, Smith faces up to 25 years in prison. He is currently being held without bail as the case proceeds through the court system.
