Prosecutors Upgrade Charges Against Matthew Smith in Fatal DWI Crash of Nassau Officer

Matthew Smith faces 25 years for the crash that killed Officer Patricia Espinosa. New evidence reveals 125 mph speeds and ignored warnings.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 14, 2026, 5:54 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from CBS News New York.

New Evidence of "Reckless and Wanton" Conduct

The legal case against a Long Island man accused of causing a catastrophic fatal crash has intensified with the introduction of new evidence and elevated criminal charges. Matthew Smith appeared in a Riverhead courtroom Friday where he pleaded not guilty to upgraded charges, including aggravated vehicular homicide. Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney described a chilling sequence of events leading up to the January 31 collision in Saint James that claimed the life of off-duty Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa. According to the prosecution, surveillance footage from a Patchogue bar shows Smith being warned by patrons not to drive, while he allegedly fended off attempts to take his car keys.

A 125 MPH Collision Captured by Passenger Video

The investigation has uncovered disturbing footage recorded by Smith’s passenger during the early morning drive. Prosecutors allege the video shows Smith weaving through traffic, running red lights, and cursing at other motorists while "driving crazy." Data from the vehicle’s black box indicates Smith was traveling at a top speed of 125 mph and was at "full throttle" when he struck Espinosa’s vehicle at the intersection of Alexander Avenue and Route 347. Blood tests revealed Smith’s blood alcohol content was .20, more than double the legal limit. The collision left his passenger with a head injury and spinal fractures.

Legal History and Parental Conflict

Beyond the immediate crash, officials highlighted Smith’s history of dangerous behavior on the road. The 20-year-old has amassed over a dozen traffic tickets in a short period. Furthermore, prosecutors noted a volatile history within the family; Smith’s own father had previously attempted to have him arrested for an alleged physical attack. Despite this record, the defense offered no comment following the hearing. Smith is currently being held without bail as the community and law enforcement colleagues of the fallen officer call for the maximum penalty allowed under the law.