Legislation Aims To Honor Fallen Troy Police Officer

TROY, MI — If State Rep. Martin Howrylak has his way, a portion of I-75 will be known as, “Officer Martin ‘Marty’ Chivas Memorial Highway.” On Tuesday, Troy Mayor Dane Slater and Police Chief Gary Mayer testified in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on behalf of the legislation to honor Chivas, who died in the line of duty.

“Our community is a safe place to live, work, and raise a family because of the hard work and dedication of the Troy Police Department,” said Rep. Howrylak, a Troy Republican representing Michigan’s 41st District . “This memorial will serve as a fitting tribute for the sacrifice Officer Chivas made in service to our community.”

Chivas was investigating a burglary in progress at a gas station on Rochester Road at I-75 when he was shot and killed by the burglars. Chivas was just 23-years-old when the incident occurred on April 22, 1974, according to the city of Troy’s website. He had been with the department three years.

In 1999, the Troy Police Department placed a wreath at the panel with Chivas’ name etched in it at the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C., the city website states. The card accompanying the wreath read: "Marty, It has been 25 years since your sacrifice. Your family at the Troy Police Department has not forgotten."

On the Officer Down Memorial Page, Chivas is also remembered. The Virginia-based nonprofit is dedicated to honoring America's fallen law enforcement officers. Each officer has their own page, where friends and family members often share their thoughts and feelings.

“42 years have gone by and I still remember your smile,” wrote Debbie, on April 22, 2016. “You are missed my friend, but your memory still lives on in our hearts. God Bless you Marty.”

Retired Troy Police Chief John Donovan echoed her sentiment on the memorial page. “How well I have remembered that night for the past forty years,” he wrote. “I was Marty''s shift commander, though I was off duty that night. Marty was not only a good cop, he was a very special person.”

Howrylak’s proposal (HB 4191) was put before Michigan’s House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for consideration. It is expected to be voted on by the members of the committee next week.

Photo courtesy of State Rep. Martin Howrylak