COPIAGUE, N.Y. — Community Mourns the Tragic Hit-and-Run Death of Louis Lasusa, 69

COPIAGUE, N.Y. — Community Mourns the Tragic Hit-and-Run Death of Louis Lasusa, 69

The Suffolk County community of Copiague is reeling after a devastating hit-and-run crash claimed the life of 69-year-old Louis Lasusa on Wednesday night. What began as an ordinary evening turned into a nightmare when Lasusa was fatally struck by a vehicle whose driver fled the scene, leaving behind heartbreak, outrage, and unanswered questions.

According to the Suffolk County Police Department, officers responded to reports of a pedestrian struck on a local roadway shortly before 9 p.m. When they arrived, they found Lasusa lying unresponsive in the street. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The vehicle involved had already fled, and investigators are now searching for both the car and the driver responsible.

Authorities have yet to release details about the make and model of the vehicle, but detectives from the Major Case Unit are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area to come forward. Police say even the smallest detail could help bring justice for Louis and his grieving family.

Neighbors describe Lasusa as a kind, gentle soul — a man who had lived in the community for decades and was known for his warmth and willingness to help others. “Louis was the type of neighbor everyone wishes they had,” said one longtime resident. “He’d shovel your driveway in the winter, help you carry groceries, and always had a smile or a story to share.”

Family members, stunned and heartbroken, shared that Lasusa had recently retired and was enjoying simple pleasures — walking around the neighborhood, spending time with friends, and visiting his grandchildren. “He didn’t deserve this,” one relative said softly. “No one does. To be left there, alone, with no one taking responsibility — it’s just cruel.”

The tragedy has reignited discussions about pedestrian safety and accountability in Suffolk County. Local advocates have pointed out that Long Island has seen an alarming rise in hit-and-run incidents over recent years. Community leaders are calling for increased lighting, better crosswalks, and harsher penalties for drivers who flee crash scenes.

As candles flickered during a small vigil near the site of the crash, residents gathered to honor Louis Lasusa’s memory — a life rooted in kindness, decency, and compassion. Through tears and prayers, they demanded justice, not only for Louis but for every victim of reckless and cowardly hit-and-run drivers.

The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.

For now, Copiague mourns — united in grief, anger, and love for a man whose life was stolen far too soon. Louis Lasusa’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, even as his community fights for the justice he deserves.