The internet is rallying around the family of a slain cop and mother, raising more than $200,000 for her family. New York cop Patricia Espinosa died over the weekend after getting in a crash with a suspected drunk driver.
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She leaves behind a husband, daughter, and plenty of loved ones.
"Officer Patricia Espinosa lived the American dream," her GoFundMe reads. "Immigrating from Ecuador at 21, already holding a college degree, she learned the English language and continued her forward motion to obtain a better life."
On Saturday, a suspected drunk driver ran a red light. The vehicle struck the cop's Alfa Romeo, killing Espinosa. Despite being rushed to Stony Brook University Hospital, nothing could be done for the severely injured police officer.
Authorities have charged 20-year-old Matthew Smith with driving while intoxicated. Both Smith and a passenger, John Andali, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. It's a tragic end to a life so full of promise. Espinosa had been working at Nassau PD since 2017. During her time at the department, she mentored younger cops and sought to help local youth.
Slain Cop Leaves Behind 2-Year-Old
She leaves behind a 2-year-old daughter named Mia.
Her GoFundMe read, "Patricia was also involved in the NCPD Mentoring Initiative - she was highly motivated and planted the seed of civil service into many of the young residents. Having started her 5th year as the Nassau County Police Hispanic Society Sergeant-At-Arms, the position allowed her to lead the membership to be the bridge between the Department and the Community. She has received numerous awards and citations throughout her career. She was fierce in the way she supported the community. Whether helping a dog find a home or dealing with someone who needed support; Officer Espinosa never waivered."
After her passing, the Nassau County PBA mourned the loss of the slain cop.
"Patricia understood the sacrifices of this profession not just as an officer, but as a wife, a sister, and a mother in blue," Nassau County PBA President Tommy Shevlin said in a statement on Facebook. "That her life was taken in such a senseless act makes this loss even more painful. We stand shoulder to shoulder with her family and our brother and sisters in uniform, and we will honor her legacy by never forgetting her service, her sacrifice, and the family she leaves behind."
