SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY – Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney has announced the indictment of Maria Guallpa-Bonilla, 36, of Bellport, for her alleged involvement in the fatal hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of 22-year-old volunteer firefighter Christopher Hlavaty of East Patchogue.
On the evening of June 10, 2024, Guallpa-Bonilla reportedly struck Hlavaty, who was riding his 2008 Suzuki motorcycle, with her 2001 Mercury Cougar during a left-hand turn onto Rider Avenue. Authorities allege she then fled the scene without stopping to render aid or reporting the incident. Hlavaty later succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation led to the discovery of car parts at the collision scene, which were later matched to damage on Guallpa-Bonilla’s vehicle found hidden under a tarp in her driveway. Guallpa-Bonilla, who only possessed a New York State driving permit requiring the presence of a licensed driver, was arraigned on charges including Leaving the Scene of an Incident Without Reporting, a Class D felony, and driving in violation of license restrictions.
Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei has set bail at $250,000 cash, $500,000 bond, or $2.5 million partially secured bond. Guallpa-Bonilla’s driving privileges have been suspended, and she was ordered to surrender her passport.
Scheduled to return to court on August 15, 2024, Guallpa-Bonilla faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of the top charge. She is represented by attorney Brett Bennett. District Attorney Tierney expressed his commitment to seeking justice for Hlavaty, emphasizing the volunteer firefighter’s dedication to his community and describing the defendant’s actions as “callous and unconscionable.”
