Brentwood's Crooked Hill Bridge Renamed After NYS Police Officer

BRENTWOOD, NY — The Crooked Hill Road bridge over the Sagtikos State Parkway in Brentwood has been dedicated in honor of New York State Police Senior Investigator Thomas M. O'Neill, who died in 2005 after suffering a fatal heart attack while making an on-duty arrest in Islip.

On August 31, Governor Kathy Hochul signed Legislation S.9262/A.5564, introduced by Senator Monica R. Martinez, that renamed the bridge the “Senior Investigator Thomas M. O’Neill Memorial Bridge.”

“Through this dedication, all who pass beneath this bridge will be reminded of the sacrifice SeniorInvestigator Thomas M. O'Neill made and the risks law enforcement professionals face daily to protect our safety," Martinez said. "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."

Martinez said a bridge renaming ceremony will be held later on in conjunction with the installation of signage by the New York State Department of Transportation.

On July 6, 2005, O'Neill stopped at a Mobil gas station on Wicks Road in Islip when the station attendant asked for help to remove a disorderly person who refused to leave the premises. After a struggle, O'Neill restrained and handcuffed the person and called for backup to take them to the station.

On the way to the State Police barracks in Brentwood, O'Neill began experiencing chest pains and asked the other trooper to drive. Upon arrival at the station, he collapsed. Despite immediate efforts by other officers and emergency responders to revive him, a fatal heart attack took his life.

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.