Family of Officer Anthony Varvaro granted death benefit after push from Staten Island electeds

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The family of a Staten Island son killed in a 2022 New Jersey Turnpike collision will receive a previously-denied death benefit after Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation Wednesday.

Port Authority Police Officer Anthony Varvaro died Sept. 11, 2022 on his way to work from his New Jersey home in a head-on collision with a wrong-way driver on the New Jersey Turnpike.

State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-North Shore/South Brooklyn) and Assemblyman Charles Fall (D-North Shore/Brooklyn/Lower Manhattan) backed the bill in their respective chambers.

Scarcella-Spanton — whose bill was co-sponsored by State Sen. Andrew Lanza (R-South Shore), along with 37 other state senators — said she was proud and grateful Hochul had signed the legislation.

“Anthony Varvaro is remembered as an active member of the community, a legendary sportsman, and a dedicated service member of the Port Authority Police. The tragic loss of Anthony two years ago today was one that struck the North Shore of Staten Island deeply. His life reflects that of a hometown hero who, through talent and virtue, became a star in his community, state and country. While we cannot return him to his wife and four children, it is imperative that his family has the support they need and deserve.”

Since the day she took the reins on this bill, Sen. Scarcella-Spanton has been relentless in both ensuring its passage and making sure the family felt a personal touch along the way. We can’t thank her enough for her dedication. Also, Assembly Member Fall for leading the bill as a steady hand in the Assembly. And the entire Staten Island delegation, numerous law enforcement organizations, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Pitta Bishop and too many others to name who offered their support. We appreciate you greatly.”

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