In an unfortunate incident at the Hawaii Nail Salon and Spa in Deer Park, Suffolk County, a violent explosion rocked the establishment, resulting in multiple casualties and leaving a trail of devastation behind. According to Suffolk County police, Steven Schwally of Dix Hills was found at the scene with bloodshot and glassy eyes, slurring his speech, and exhibiting signs of intoxication.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud and sudden explosion, describing the aftermath as resembling a bomb blast. Assistant District Attorney Alexander Bopp, citing witnesses, mentioned that bodies were scattered throughout the area, with some trapped under Schwally's vehicle. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives in the incident: Jiancai Chen, aged 37, the owner of the business, and two employees, Yan Xu, aged 41, and Meizi Zhang, aged 50. Additionally, Emilia Rennhack, a 30-year-old NYPD officer, succumbed to her injuries, having been at the salon to get her nails done for a colleague's wedding. Rennhack's husband, a detective in the NYPD, was visibly grief-stricken during Schwally's arraignment.

Nine others, including a 12-year-old girl, were rushed to local hospitals for treatment, while authorities worked tirelessly to secure the scene, taping off a large area of the shopping center. The extent of the injuries sustained by the survivors remains unknown.

Witnesses described the sound of the explosion as a combination of glass shattering and metal colliding, pointing to a significant impact. Prosecutors revealed that Schwally's vehicle had gone airborne before crashing into the salon and had reached the opposite side of the building before coming to a stop.

Schwally, who appeared in court in a hospital gown and a wheelchair, entered a plea of not guilty to first-offense driving while intoxicated charges. Although his listed address is in Dix Hills, Schwally's attorney informed the court that he is currently unemployed and had been residing in a hotel.

Authorities conducted a blood-alcohol test on Schwally, but the results were still pending at the time of reporting, as the test was administered nearly five hours after the crash.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, with numerous police and first responder vehicles arriving at the scene to aid in rescue efforts and investigate the incident. As authorities continue their investigation into the crash, the community mourns the loss of lives and prays for the swift recovery of those injured.