80-Year-Old Vietnam Veteran Killed in Long Island Hit-and-Run

Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident

• 💔 An 80-year-old grandfather, Peter Morris, was killed in a hit-and-run accident on Long Island.
• 📍 The incident occurred just after Morris had attended a veterans' event at his granddaughter's elementary school, Woodward Parkway Elementary.

Details of the Crash

• 💥 Morris was struck by a stolen vehicle that collided with his car outside the school.
• 🏃‍♂️ The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Randy Cologne, reportedly fled the scene on foot after the crash.

Community Response and Arrest

• 🚒 An off-duty correction officer, Torres, heard the explosion, used a fire extinguisher, and helped pull Morris from the wreckage.
• 🚓 Police apprehended Cologne shortly after, charging him with second-degree manslaughter, criminal possession of stolen property, grand larceny, and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.

Victim's Background and Legacy

• 🎖️ Peter Morris was a Vietnam veteran described by his family as caring, loyal, and a devoted community member.
• 😔 The tragedy comes just months after he lost his wife of nearly six decades, and he was planning a trip to Disney World with his granddaughter.
• 🕯️ The school plans to hold a vigil to support the family and honor Morris's memory.