Jacob Brown
A 21-year-old Long Island woman, Rachel Lodice, was arrested for allegedly running the scene of a deadly accident in a marked public safety vehicle shortly after the collision occurred.
The incident occurred when Lodice’s 2023 Kia collided with a 2022 Nissan Altima on Hicksville Road in Massapequa. The Nissan’s driver, Cynthia Mitchell, aged 64, succumbed to her injuries at a hospital. Another passenger, aged 46, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Reaction from Victim’s Friend:
Monique Powell, a friend of the victim, expressed grief and frustration, emphasizing the impact on Mitchell’s daughter. Powell urged law enforcement not to release Lodice, accusing her of making light of the situation.
Lodice allegedly fled the scene in a marked public safety vehicle, prompting her arrest shortly afterward. She was charged with vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene of an incident, driving while intoxicated, and grand theft.
A woman claiming to be Lodice’s soon-to-be mother-in-law defended her, portraying her as a new mother who did not intend to cause harm. She explained that Lodice was traveling from Texas to New York at the time of the incident.
Police Statement and Lodice’s Alleged Admission:
According to police, Lodice admitted to consuming alcohol while taking medication. This statement was reportedly made while Lodice was in the back of a squad car.
Lodice was arraigned, and bail was set at $250,000. Details regarding Lodice’s legal representation were not immediately available.
