Suffolk Reporter

A hit-and-run accident in Patchogue in March 2023 that claimed the life of 25-year-old Nicholas Puzio has prompted NYS Senator Dean Murray and NYS Assemblyman Doug Smith to introduce "Nick’s Law" (S6051/A6520). The legislation aims to increase penalties for those convicted of leaving the scene of an accident involving a death.

Puzio, from Farmingville, New York, was struck by two separate vehicles while crossing Route 112. Both drivers fled the scene, leaving him to die. One driver has been sentenced to six months in jail with five years’ probation, while the second individual awaits trial.

“Two drivers made reckless choices and left my son dying in the street. Who does that? Does anyone have regard for human life? The laws in New York State are far too lenient,” said Nick’s mother, Terry Puzio. “Unfortunately, the current punishment doesn’t seem to deter the crime,” she added.

Senator Murray emphasized the urgency of passing "Nick’s Law," stating, “There is little doubt that the state legislature will be called back to Albany in the coming weeks or months to address some unfinished business. We are calling on the Legislative Leaders to make 'Nick’s Law' a part of that unfinished business."

Assemblyman Smith highlighted that fleeing drivers often do so out of fear of facing additional trouble for being impaired or reckless. He noted that under current law, fleeing drivers face a class D felony and a fine up to $5,000. "Nick's Law" would upgrade this offense to a class B felony with a $30,000 fine.

The frequency of hit-and-run accidents remains high. In Suffolk County alone, there were as many as 16 fatal hit-and-runs in 2023. This year has already seen multiple fatalities from such incidents.

Janine Hlavaty, whose son Christopher Hlavaty was killed in a recent hit-and-run crash, expressed hope that "Nick's Law" would deter future offenders: "The consequences need to be much stiffer and just maybe these heartless people will not be so quick to leave our loved ones to die."

NYS Assemblyman Doug Smith stressed the importance of immediate action: “When someone is hurt at the scene of an accident every moment counts in helping save a life. Nick's law will send a strong message.”

NYS Assemblyman Ed Flood echoed these sentiments: “Everyone should feel safe on the road... Individuals selfish enough to leave the scene need to be punished accordingly.”

NYS Senator Anthony Palumbo urged legislative action: "How many more young New Yorkers do we have to lose before action is taken?"

District Attorney Tierney called for parity between penalties for impaired driving homicides and hit-and-runs: “Vehicular crimes devastate families and communities... We urgently call for legislative reform.”

NYS Senator Mario R. Mattera stated: “Leaving an injured person in the road is unacceptable and it must be changed as soon as possible.”

NYS Senator Jack Martins affirmed: “Keeping families safe remains government’s top priority.”

NYS Senator Steven Rhoads described "Nick’s Law" as crucial legislation aimed at reducing road fatalities and holding reckless drivers accountable.

NYS Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick criticized one-party control in Albany for leading to minimal consequences for criminals: “This must change.”

NYS Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano emphasized accountability: “Drivers must be held accountable for their actions behind the wheel.”

Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio noted: “Respect for law and human life was not considered in Nick's case.”

Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo underscored zero tolerance for fleeing accident scenes: “Far too many families have been impacted by reckless drivers.”

Finally, NYS Senator Alexis Weik concluded: "A harsher penalty for fatal hit-and-run crimes will better serve justice."