Killing of police officers near Syracuse is gut-wrenching, senseless: What they’re saying

Salina, N.Y. — Leaders and others across New York and the nation are offering condolences after a Syracuse police officer and an Onondaga County sheriff’s deputy were shot and killed Sunday night in Salina.

Salina Town Supervisor Nick Paro thanked police and others who responded to the incident. He said the community is grieving with the families of the officers who were killed.

“We are all thankful for your sacrifice and commitment to the line of duty,” he said in a news release. “Most of us will never truly know the pain you are going through and your families will remain in our prayers.”

State Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli said the loss of the officers is devastating to Central New York.

“We mourn these law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty and hope to honor their heroism and service,” he said in a news release. “My prayers are with their families and their colleagues.”

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh called the officers heroes and said the incident is “our worst nightmare come true.”

U.S. Rep. Brandon Williams said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he and his team are ready to assist. He also said their thoughts are with the families of the slain officers.

Cortland County Legislature Chairman Kevin Fitch said the officers’ bravery and dedication “epitomize the spirit of service and sacrifice that defines our law enforcement community.”

Liverpool Central School District Superintendent Daniel Henner said in a message to the community that it’s more important than ever to come together to support one another.

“Tragedies of this magnitude remind us of the strength found in unity and the comfort in collect compassion,” he wrote. “Let us lean on each other for support, offer a shoulder to those who need it the most and work hand in hand to foster an environment of healing and resilience.”

The two officers died when they went to follow up on a traffic stop that began in the city of Syracuse after the driver sped away. Police tracked the driver to a home on Darien Drive in the town of Salina.

Officers and the suspect exchanged gunfire there.

The two officers and the suspect were all hit. The suspect also was killed.

The last time a police officer was shot and killed in the line of duty in Onondaga County was more than 30 years ago.

Comments on the officers’ deaths have been pouring in Monday morning from around New York and even other parts of the U.S.

The Boston Police Detectives Benevolent Society wrote on X that the group was saddened by the killings.

“Our thoughts are with both agencies and the loved ones of the fallen,” the group wrote.

Rick Snyder, president of Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police, called the incident “terribly tragic.”

You can see more of what people are saying on social media below.

2 CNY police officers killed

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