Cops: NYPD officer dies from injuries in Smithtown crash

A veteran NYPD officer has died from injuries he suffered early Friday in a crash on the Northern State Parkway in Smithtown, the New York State Police said.

Officer Kevin Lui, 43, of College Point, Queens, was severely injured about 2 a.m. when his vehicle, traveling eastbound on the parkway, struck a tree off the left shoulder, just east of Exit 46 in Smithtown, said New York State Police spokesman William Duffy.

Lui, who was off duty at the time of the crash, had been assigned to the 23rd Precinct in Manhattan, according to NYPD records. He died Sunday at Stony Brook Hospital, Duffy said.

State Police were conducting an investigation into the cause of the crash, explained Duffy.

According to NYPD records, Lui joined the department in July 2006 and had extensive training in a number of areas. He also received an award for excellent police service. Lui’s record included his making arrests in 84 misdemeanors, 18 felonies and four violation cases.

Lui’s colleagues at the 23rd Precinct posted a memorial message on the precinct Facebook page.

"He was quick to smile and was a true mentor to others," read a post on the page. "Despite his loss, his presence will continue to be felt in #EastHarlem as Officers who knew him continue to serve with him as a role model."

By Anthony M. DeStefano

tony.destefano@newsday.comtonynewsday

Anthony M. DeStefano has been a reporter for Newsday since 1986 and covers law enforcement, criminal justice and legal affairs from its New York City offices.