UPDATE: Honoring YPD Officer, Former East Haven Volunteer Firefighter

EAST HAVEN, CT — The untimely death of long-time Yale police officer Gregory Swiantek, 47, rocked the first responder communities of East Haven and New Haven. For years, he served as an East Haven Fire Department volunteer firefighter.

Raised in East Haven, around 18 years ago, Swiantek served with Foxon Company 3, East Haven Fire Department Chief Matt Marcarelli said.

East Haven and New Haven fire departments worked together in the "dignified transfer" of Swiantek to the East Haven Memorial Funeral Home Friday, Marcarelli said.

"Yale University Police Officer Greg Swaintek previously served the Town of East Haven," Marcarelli posted to Facebook. "Greg was liked by all who met him and was a dedicated public servant and father. He will be missed by many. Thanks to the New Haven Fire Department for assisting us with the flag memorial."

James Integlia and Joe Deko, owners of East Haven Memorial Funeral Home, issued a statement on the tragic passing, and their opportunity to "care for a hero."

Deko, himself a firefighter/EMT, knew Swiantek him personally, as he was one of his supervisors at Centralized Medical Emergency Direction (CMED) New Haven, and they "continued to be friends well after."

"It’s our honor and pleasure to take care of a local hero," Integlia and Deko shared. "Greg was an outstanding public servant from a very young age and a pillar of our community. He was loved by so many, and will be missed by all who knew him."

Last week, Yale Public Safety shared the tragic news of Swiantek's passing in a Facebook post.

"It is with immense grief that we announce the loss of Officer Gregory Swiantek, who suffered a fatal medical event on March 12, 2025. Officer Swiantek was an extraordinary officer, a devoted father to his beloved daughter, a cherished friend, and a dedicated community member," wrote Yale Public Safety in a Facebook post.

Serving the Yale University Police Department since Oct. 17, 2007, he served in various roles in Patrol, as a Community Engagement Officer, Field Training Officer and Bicycle Officer.

"He was a proud member of our Honor Guard and a true pillar of our community. Always the first to offer a helping hand, his kindness, compassion, and unwavering support touched countless lives," Yale Public Safety officials said in a social media post. "Greg’s thoughtful spirit shined in the small moments. He never missed sending those he loved a text on holidays, birthdays, or major life events, always keeping his friends and family close to his heart. His absence leaves a void that words cannot fill."

"Please keep his 10-year-old daughter Remy, his extended family and friends, and the entire law enforcement community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time," the post reads.

"For those who wish to support Remy, donations can be made at www.ourcommunityheros.org. Rest easy, Officer Swiantek, your legacy of love and service will never be forgotten. We’ve got it from here," Yale Public Safety said.

Saying goodbye

His obituary notes that born in Danbury in December 1977, but his family soon after moved to East Haven.

"While typical two-year-olds were running from the sounds of sirens with their ears covered, little Officer Gregory ran toward them, barely reaching the windowsill on his tiptoes and searching for their origin ...fascinated," his obituary reads.

He attended East Haven public schools, made many great friendships and memories, and played in the school bands. He was a volunteer firefighter, moved on to Hunters Ambulance as an EMT and then CMED-New Haven as a dispatcher, and eventually Dispatch Supervisor.

Calling hours for Officer Swiantek are at East Haven Memorial Funeral Home, 425 Main St. Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

East Haven police issued a community traffic advisory alert.

"We anticipate a large turnout, as thousands are expected to visit our community to pay their respects to Greg’s family," police said. "As a result, traffic in the area will be significantly impacted. Delays should be expected."

Traffic Advisory

• Vehicle traffic on Main Street will be ONE WAY between Forbes Place and Kimberly Avenue Ext traveling towards New Haven (westbound)
• Main Street (between Forbes Place and Kimberly Avenue Ext) will be closed between 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• Attendees traveling from New Haven (and points west) should take I-95 North, exit 52, and enter via Forbes Place to Main Street.
• Those coming from Branford (and points east) should utilize Saltonstall Parkway to Forbes Place to Main Street.
• Carpooling is strongly encouraged to help reduce traffic congestion.
• Because of very limited street parking, alternate parking options will be at the East Haven Senior Center, 91 Taylor Ave., St. Vincent De Paul Church, 80 Taylor Ave., and Overbrook School , 51 Gerrish Ave.

The funeral is Wednesday and open to the public