Holly MatkinWebb, NY – Newburgh Police Department (NPD) Detective Daniel “D.J.” Romano died in a snowmobile crash on Jan. 28.
The 32-year-old off-duty officer was snowmobiling in the Adirondacks when he slammed into a tree, according to the Times Herald-Record.
Webb police officers responded to an intersection in the local snowmobile trail system shortly after 8 p.m. and found the injured detective.
He succumbed to his injuries shortly after being evacuated from the scene.
Det. Romano began “proudly” serving the NPD in 2018, according to his obituary.
“Whether he was taking an illegal handgun off the street or taking a picture with a child, Daniel shined like a bright spot in the department,” the tribute read.
Det. Romano earned a position on the department’s tactical unit last year.
He was posthumously promoted to the rank of detective.
“Daniel was beloved by his co-workers for his positive attitude, humor, and acts of kindness and will be greatly missed by all,” his obituary read.
Det. Romano leaves behind his wife, Kaitlyn, and his daughters, two-year-old Adrianna and one-year-old Alina.
He is also survived by his parents, brother, nieces, in-laws, grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Newburgh Town Supervisor Gil Piaquadio said Det. Romano was an outstanding father and husband and a “compassionate, community-minded police officer,” the Times Herald-Record reported.
“He will be sadly missed. The entire town mourns his passing and prayers are with the family,” Piaquadio said.
A fundraiser established to help his family in the wake of their loss has raised over $260,000 so far.
Det. Romano was laid to rest Feb. 3, according to his obituary.
*** $3,920 Raised of $25,000 Goal ***
“DJ Romano was an active Police Officer in the Town of Newburgh since October of 2018. He passed away in a tragic snowmobile accident and leaves behind a wife and two young children.. pic.twitter.com/GUmQ15L7Ac
— Fundthefirst.com (@FundtheFirst) January 30, 2022
Middle Hope Firefighters are unfurling the flag for Town of Newburgh police officer Daniel Romano's funeral procession on South Robinson Avenue. Several streets around Sacred Heart Church have been closed for the procession. pic.twitter.com/uHmmY8HWgr
— Kelly Marsh (@KellyMarsh86) February 3, 2022
Today the Newburgh community will grieve and honor the life of Officer Romano who touched the lives of so many in his time here with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are closest to him. pic.twitter.com/IFBmbr0c7s
— Newburgh Swimming (@NewburghSwims) February 2, 2022
I’m at a loss for words. Love you D.j. Romano. Such a good person and a fierce competitor. Today is a tough day. Rest in heaven my friend. Life is so precious. pic.twitter.com/SU7VoiWKSD
— Coach Ola Adams (@CoachOlaAdams) January 29, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Newburgh Police Department Detective Daniel “D.J.” Romano, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
