By Hank Russell
The family of Octavio Espinal recently started a GoFundMe page to help defray the costs of funeral and memorial expenses, as he succumbed to his injuries from a hit-and-run in Freeport.
As previously reported in Long Island Life & Politics, on November 8 at 1:50 p.m., Espinal, 76, was crossing North Grove Street at the intersection of Brooklyn Avenue when he was struck by a light-colored sedan being operated by an unknown person. The vehicle then fled from the scene, going southbound. Espinal was transported to an area hospital by a Northwell Health ambulance, where he later died. His family said he was leaving work when the incident happened.
“It is with deep sadness that we share that our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Octavio, has passed away after being on life support following a tragic hit-and-run accident,” the Espinal family said in a statement. “Our hearts are shattered. He was a hardworking, loving, and humble man who dedicated his life to his family. His smile, kindness, and strength touched everyone who knew him.”
The investigation is ongoing.
Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding the above incident to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.
As of this writing, the family has raised $8,932 out of $30,000. To donate to Espinal’s fund, click here.