PORT CHESTER, NY (July 9, 2024) — Port Chester Police Officer Christopher Bernal, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024, due to injuries he sustained from a motorcycle accident that occurred in Orange County, NY
Officer Bernal joined the Port Chester Police Department in 2023.
What they are saying:
Port Chester Police Chief Christopher Rosabella: “In Officer Bernal’s one year with the Police Department, he touched everyone with his smile, his zest for life, and his unparalleled enthusiasm for serving as a police officer. His tragic death deeply affects members of the Port Chester Police Department and the entire community. Our thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support remain with the Bernal family.”
Port Chester Mayor, Luis A. Marino: “Officer Bernal was not only a member of our police department, but a well-respected member of our community. His dedication and compassion for the people of Port Chester will be his legacy.
Port Chester Village Manager, Stuart L. Rabin: “Officer Bernal was a rising star in our police department, whose promising career was tragically cut short. His professionalism and dedication to keeping our village safe were just two of the many qualities Christopher exemplified every day for the benefit of our community.”
Funeral arrangements and opportunities for the public to pay respects will be announced in due course.
Starting Monday, July 8, 2024, and through Sunday, July 14, 2024, all flags in the Village of Port Chester are to be flown at half-staff in honor of Police Officer Christopher Bernal.
What happened?
According to the New York State Police, on July 7, 2024, at approximately 1:50 pm, Troopers from the State Police barracks in Monroe, responded to State Route 9W northbound, in the town of Highlands, for a serious motor vehicle accident. A preliminary investigation determined that Christopher Bernal, age 23, was operating a 2004 Honda motorcycle, northbound on SR 9W, when he failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway, causing him to exit the roadway and strike a parked occupied 2023 GMC Acadia, in a scenic pull-off. Bernal was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital by Town of Highlands EMS, who attempted to perform live saving measures, and he subsequently succumbed to his injuries. The front seat passenger of the GMC was transported to St. Lukes Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The investigation is ongoing.