Law enforcement honors fallen RPD Officer Mazurkiewicz

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Emotions were flowing through Blue Cross Arena as several officers filled the space to remember the life of Rochester Officer Tony Mazurkiewicz.

Commanding Officer of RPD Special Sections Captain Ray Dearcop says Officer Mazurkiewicz was not only a team member but a close friend.

"When I needed to get an unpopular message across to the troops, I went to Maz. He had a way with people because he was fair and treated everyone with respect. Maz was beloved by his coworkers, family and friends. A true cop’s cop officer saying your heroic actions likely prevented further injuries to officers and citizens who were at the scene," said Dearcop.

At the funeral today was Officer Sino Seng.

He was tony’s partner in the tactical unit and was shot himself—and was able to return fire.

He arrived in a wheelchair and then stood up outside the Blue Cross Arena as Mazurkiewicz was loaded into the hearse to say a final goodbye to his partner.

"Officer Seng, your heroic actions likely prevented further injuries to officers and citizens who were at the scene. You, sir, are a hero," said Dearcop.

Some of the speakers took the opportunity to call out politicians and dignitaries in attendance saying "enough is enough."

"I pray that perhaps, maybe this reaches some of our federal leaders. I pray that it does because this is going to come to an end. It’s got to come to an end. And they want to get there by figuring out what the hell color tie you got on. Where are the easiest path resistance to make sure that you can continue a four-year halt?" said Dennis Cole, retired RPD Tactical Unit officer.

Officer Mazurkiewicz will also be awarded the Rochester Police Department’s highest honors—the medal of valor and the purple heart.