Copiague Community Grieves 69-Year-Old Louis Lasusa After Tragic Hit-and-Run
COPIAGUE, NEW YORK — A deep wave of sorrow has settled over the Suffolk County community following the heartbreaking loss of 69-year-old Louis Lasusa, who passed away Wednesday night, November 5, 2025, after being struck by a vehicle in a tragic hit-and-run crash along Montauk Highway in Copiague.
According to the Suffolk County Police Department, the incident occurred just before 9:00 p.m. in the eastbound lanes of Montauk Highway, near Deauville Boulevard — a stretch known for steady evening traffic and limited street lighting. Officers from the First Precinct responded after receiving multiple 911 calls about a man struck in the roadway. Upon arrival, they found Lasusa lying unresponsive, suffering from severe trauma consistent with being hit by a moving vehicle.
Emergency medical personnel from Amityville Fire Department and Copiague Rescue quickly rendered aid and transported Lasusa to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, he was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival.
Detectives from the Major Case Unit determined that the driver who struck Lasusa fled the scene without stopping to render assistance or notify authorities — a violation of state law that has left the community both heartbroken and outraged. Investigators are now examining surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras in an effort to identify the vehicle involved. Evidence collected at the scene suggests the suspect’s car may have sustained noticeable front-end damage.
Witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored sedan traveling eastbound moments before the impact, though police have not confirmed the make or model. The Suffolk County Crime Stoppers program is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of the driver responsible.
Louis Lasusa, a longtime resident of Copiague, was known by family and friends as a warm, generous man who lived a quiet yet deeply meaningful life. Neighbors describe him as “the kind of person who always stopped to chat” — someone who looked out for others and lent a helping hand whenever needed.
Born and raised in Suffolk County, Louis spent over 30 years working as a maintenance technician before retiring two years ago. He enjoyed fishing on the South Shore, tending to his garden, and spending time with his grandchildren. “He was the heart of our family,” said his daughter, Maria Lasusa, through tears. “He never went a day without calling to check in on us.”
Friends remember Louis for his humor, compassion, and unwavering optimism. “If something was broken, Louis could fix it,” said neighbor Tom Bennett, who had known him for more than two decades. “He was a constant presence — dependable, loyal, and full of good advice. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
As news of the tragedy spread, the Copiague community gathered near the scene of the crash to leave flowers, candles, and handwritten notes along the roadside. Many expressed frustration that the driver fled, leaving Louis alone in his final moments. “No one deserves to be left behind like that,” said resident Angela Rivera, who joined a small vigil Thursday night. “He was someone’s father, someone’s grandfather — this community will not rest until there’s justice.”
The Suffolk County Police Department urges anyone with information about the hit-and-run or the vehicle involved to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and all leads are being pursued urgently.
Funeral arrangements for Louis Lasusa are being handled by Mangano Family Funeral Home in Deer Park. A viewing is scheduled for Sunday and Monday, followed by a funeral mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Copiague. He will be laid to rest at Pinelawn Memorial Park.
As Copiague mourns, residents are reminded of the fragility of life and the lasting impact of one person’s decision to flee rather than stop and help. Louis Lasusa’s memory now lives on through his family, his friends, and the community he quietly strengthened for so many years.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to come forward so that justice can be served for Louis Lasusa — a man remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and love for life.
