Brentwood Bridge Named in Honor of Fallen State Police Senior Investigator

The Crooked Hill Road bridge over the Sagtikos State Parkway in Brentwood has been dedicated in honor of fallen New York State Police Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill.  The designation was made Aug. 31, when Gov. Kathy Hochul signed state Sen. Monica R. Martinez’s legislation authorizing the naming.

Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill’s End of Watch was July 6, 2005, when, while on duty, he stopped at a Mobil gas station on Wicks Road in Islip.  The station attendant requested his assistance in removing a disorderly individual who refused to leave the premises.  A struggle ensued, but O'Neill was able to restrain and handcuff the suspect.  He then called for backup to transport the individual to the station.

As he and a fellow trooper were transporting the suspect to the State Police barracks in Brentwood, O'Neill began experiencing chest pains and asked the other trooper to take over driving.  Upon arrival at the station, O'Neill collapsed.  Despite immediate efforts by his colleagues and emergency responders to revive him, he succumbed to a fatal heart attack.

“Through this dedication, all who pass beneath this bridge will be reminded of the sacrifice Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill made and the risks law enforcement professionals face daily to protect our safety.  It will stand as a lasting tribute to his service, commemorate his courage, and honor a legacy that will continue to inspire others to serve with distinction,” said Senator Martinez.

The bill was sponsored by Assemblyman Keith P. Brown in his respective chamber, who said, “Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill exemplified the true spirit of service and sacrifice. His dedication to protecting our community, even at the cost of his own life, deserves the highest honor. The designation of the highway will forever honor his heroic service and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of law enforcement officers.”

Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill was born Dec. 11, 1948, in Bay Shore, New York.  After graduating from Iona College, he began a distinguished career in law enforcement, joining the New York State Parkway Police in 1972.  His commitment and expertise earned him the rank of sergeant before he transitioned to the New York State Police in 1980, following the merger with the Parkway Police.  As a member of Troop L, he served as a technical sergeant and later advanced to the role of investigator.  In 1990, O'Neill achieved the rank of senior investigator in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

O'Neill’s passing marked the end of a 33-year career with the New York State Police, during which he earned the respect and admiration of his peers and the community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Senior Investigator O'Neill was a devoted family man who was survived by his wife, two stepsons, grandchildren, a brother, and two sisters.  He was also active in the community, a dedicated member of Trinity Lutheran Church, and one of the original founders and trustees of the Troopers Memorial Fund.

A dedication ceremony for the “Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill Memorial Bridge” will be held at a later date, in conjunction with the installation of signage by the New York State Department of Transportation.