Vanessa Raghubar - a Victim of Impaired Driving in New York City

Vanessa Raghubar, age 22, died on April 24, 2017, at a hospital in New York City. 

Vanessa Raghubar

On April 22, 2017, Vanessa went out with family members and friends to celebrate her sister's 21st birthday. Vanessa was the designated driver and consumed no alcoholic beverages during the evening. 

At about 4:00 a.m., on April 23, 2017, Vanessa was driving her sister and her sister's boyfriend home when their vehicle was rear-ended causing it to crash into a tree and a utility pole. 

The vehicle which crashed into Vanessa was driven by off-duty Police Officer Neville Smith, age 32.

Vanessa was rushed to a local hospital and underwent surgery for multiple injuries. Tragically, she passed away early the next day. 

Neville Smith works out of a precinct in the Bronx. He is facing numerous charges in connection with Vanessa's death including driving while intoxicated and refusing to take a breathalyzer test. 

Vanessa was studying psychology at York College, and was going to graduate in June of this year. She was also a talented artist. 

Angels of God, pray for Vanessa
and for those who have lost her.

Neville Smith is innocent unless proven guilty.

However, we offer this advice to all drivers: If you find that you are drunk, wasted or doped up on street drugs or prescription drugs or if you are falling asleep on your feet, do NOT drive. Call a family member or a friend for a ride; or take a taxi or a bus; or stay where you are until you sober up; or crawl home on your hands and knees. It will be better for you and for the world if you do.

Regret can last a lifetime.

Vanessa's loved ones are devastated over her sudden and tragic death. She was a good kid who was just starting out in life. She was understanding, giving and loving. She did her best. She will be forever mourned.

Oceans of tears have been shed for Vanessa. 

Vanessa is survived by many loving friends and family members who will forever miss her.

Pray for justice for Vanessa.

God save us from the drunk and the doped up drivers. They are killing us, Father. Amen.

Pray that Vanessa is in Heaven. Pray that she is at peace and is with God. Amen.