Beloved Waterbury Police Officer Dies At 28, Mourned By Many

WATERBURY, CT — The Waterbury Police Department and the law enforcement community around the state are mourning the death of Officer Vincent Lombardi, who died at the age of 28.

"It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our own, Officer Vincent Lombardi. "Rest in paradise, Officer Lombardi. Your service, kindness, and legacy will never be forgotten," the Waterbury Police Department shared in a social media post.

According to his obituary, he died last week after a "courageous battle" with sarcoma cancer. He joined the Waterbury Police Department in 2020 due to his "passionate desire to serve and protect his community.

"He dedicated himself to this important work, and his strong sense of duty and calm demeanor made him an exceptional officer," according to his obituary at the Chase Parkway Memorial, the Albini Family Funeral Home. "Vincent was known for his ability to connect with young, troubled children, and he quickly became a beloved figure in Waterbury's Police Athletic League (P.A.L.). His heart was fully invested in helping those around him, especially the kids he mentored and coached."

He was an "adored" coach for the boys' travel basketball team and his "generosity knew no bound," according to the obituary.

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The Waterbury Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 1339 wrote, "Waterbury Police Officer Vincent Lombardi lost his valiant battle with cancer this week. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and his sisters and brothers in blue."

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 20 at St. Michael’s Church, 62 St. Michael’s Dr. in Waterbury.

Connecticut Capitol Police said on X, "We are saddened to have to post again so soon..It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences to the Waterbury PD, as they mourn the loss of Officer Vincent Lombardi . Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fellow officers Rest in peace, Officer Lombardi."

The Shelton CT Police Department said on Facebook that it "stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters of the Waterbury Police Department as we honor and remember Officer Vincent Lombardi. His dedication, sacrifice, and service to his community will never be forgotten. In this time of profound loss, we send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow officers. Rest easy, brother—your watch is over, but your legacy lives on. May God Bless Officer Lombardi, the Lombardi Family and the Waterbury Police Department!"

Read the full obituary here.