Flags Fly At Half-Mast As Funeral Services Are Held For Retired NYSP Sgt. Who Died Of 9/11-Related Illness

RIVERSIDE, NY — The community bid a sad farewell to a retired New York State Police sergeant who died Tuesday of a 9/11-related illness.

New York State Police announced the tragic news on Thursday: "It is with deep sadness that Superintendent Steven G. James announces the line of duty death of retired Sergeant Michael L. Piro at the age of 63."

Sergeant Piro, NYSP said, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, "from an illness stemming from his assignment in and around the World Trade Center site following the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Sergeant Piro is the 39th member of the New York State Police who has died from an illness resulting from the 9/11 attacks."

Sergeant Piro retired from the New York State Police on March 26, 2015, after 29 years of dedicated service. He was last assigned to Troop L SP-Riverside, the NYSP said.

Sergeant Piro is survived by his four children, Melissa, Jennifer, Michael, and Joseph, and was preceded in death by his wife Cynthia.

Arrangements took place at McLaughlin Heppner Funeral Home in Riverhead; funeral services took place Saturday.

On Saturday, Gov. Kathy Hochul directed that flags on all state government buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of retired New York State Police Sergeant Piro.

"A distinguished member of the New York State Police, Sergeant Piro, stepped up to serve and protect his fellow New Yorkers when it was needed most," Hochul said. "I am profoundly grateful for Sergeant Piro and his dedication to keeping New York safe, and I join his family, colleagues, and community in honoring his life and service, and send my deepest condolences to those whose lives he touched."