The Homicide Squad of the Nassau County Police Department reported details of a fatal auto accident and DWI arrest that occurred on Sunday, Nov. 11 at 2:28 a.m. in Levittown.
According to detectives, a 2006 Mercedes Benz traveling westbound on Hempstead Turnpike, operated by Sophia Santos, 20, of Albertson, collided with a 2005 Chevrolet operated by Nancy Tumminello of Elmont. Police stated Tumminello was southbound on Wantagh Avenue attempting to turn onto eastbound Hempstead Turnpike.
All four passengers in the Chevrolet were injured, according to police. Detectives report that Virginia Casazza, 62, of Valley Stream, sitting in the rear left seat suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at 2:31 a.m. Additionally, police stated other passengers were transported to Nassau University Medical Center. Linda Chapman, 53, of Levittown, who was sitting in the rear middle seat, was admitted in critical condition with internal injuries. According to a NUMC representative, Chapman was transferred to North Shore University Hospital. According to the police report, John Urgo, 53, of Valley Stream, who was sitting in the right rear seat, was admitted in critical condition with a fractured jaw and vertebrae. Detectives stated William Clarkin, 56, of Mineola, who was sitting in the right front seat, was treated and released for his injuries. Tumminello was also treated and released for her injuries, police reported. The vehicles were impounded for brake and safety checks.
According to detectives, Santos, who was admitted to Nassau University Medical Center, was arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Vehicular Manslaughter 2nd Degree. She was arraigned on Nov. 14.
Detectives request anyone with information about this accident to call the Homicide Squad at 573-7788 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.