by Jerry Burke
It has been nearly three weeks since 14-year-old Jessica Savarese was killed by a hit-and-run driver as she crossed Hempstead Turnpike near Claflin Boulevard in Franklin Square. Police say they have had some leads, but none have yet led to a suspect.
Paul Kosowski of the Nassau County Civic Association, a friend of Jessica's father, Tony, has used the organization's resources to start a grass-roots campaign to help solve the crime. "We've already had a lot of people, including students at Carey High School, visit our Web site and help post fliers," said Kosowski. "What we need now is action."
Kosowski said the family has raised money in order to set up a reward for information leading to an arrest in the case. The website, www.nassaucivic.com, hosts a link to the most updated information available on the case, which can be copied and printed as a flier.
The accident occurred on Friday, May 7, at 10:54 p.m. Savarese was crossing Hempstead Turnpike, not far from the Silver Star Diner, in Franklin Square when she was struck and killed by an unidentified vehicle traveling westbound toward Elmont. The driver of the car did not stop, and fled the scene. The two friends with Savarese at the scene say she ran ahead of them while crossing.
According to Detective Lieutenant Kevin Smith of the Nassau County Police Public Information Office, police are still looking for the vehicle as well as any information on the incident. Police described the vehicle as a 1987-1991 Ford Taurus, a passenger car. They say the vehicle would likely have sustained heavy damage to the right front side.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 244-TIPS or send an e-mail to crimestoppers@pdcn.org. All calls will remain anonymous.
Ê"We're just asking that anyone who knows anything please step forward if you have any information, even if you feel it might not be relevant," said Kosowski. "Your information just may solve this case and help the grieving family come to grips with their tragic loss."
Kosowski, who once lived in the area, said fliers were posted on Sunday, May 9, in the area surrounding the scene and all along Hempstead Turnpike, seeking the public-s help. "We just need somebody, even anonymously, to come forward," he said. "The family deserves at least that."
