Outpouring of support for fallen RPD Officer

PERINTON, N.Y. (WHEC) — Saying goodbye to a loved one is not only devastating to family, it can leave anyone with a heavy heart. News10NBC had crews out along the procession route for Officer Tony Mazurkiewicz.

Many in attendance said they did not personally know Tony or his family but still felt the pain. They wanted to let Tony’s family know that the entire community is grieving with them.

Megan Shapiro, while out walking her dogs, said she knew Tony lost his life protecting the community. She didn’t know when the funeral was supposed to be but was honored to be outside at the right time to watch his procession.

"I’m happy I was able to soak in the moment, and just watch all of the law enforcement come together all the people out here standing, it was a beautiful thing,” said Shapiro.

Other community members were spread out down the streets of Perinton to wave and blow a kiss to a hero. Veronica Cellura says her husband is also in law enforcement.

"Loss can never be replaced, but in time—it will heal,” said Cellura.

Nancy Cowey-Mangus, another neighbor, says she shed tears just watching the community take care of its own.

"The people who were standing out there, some of them were his neighbors from Fairport. It was very heartbreaking, humbling and heartwarming to see that much support.”

Steps away or miles apart, neighbors made sure to pour their hearts out for Officer Mazurkiewicz and his family as they guided him to his final resting place.

"This outpouring of support in the community is just dramatically impressive you can’t have enough it’s an honor that officers commitment to the community,” said Bob Lukasiewicz, Rochester Crime Stoppers board member.

Officer Tony Mazurkiewicz was on a journey to rid the world of violence. Monday, he took a different path that led him on his own journey to find peace. The procession, with hundreds of law enforcement officers, family, and friends, started at Blue Cross Arena, onto Rte 490, getting off at Washington Street along 31F, then down to White Haven Memorial Park where he will lay to rest.

Community members watching the procession line say they can’t even fathom losing their hero.

"I think these men and women, every day they step out, potentially thinking, maybe this could be their last day and I would just be devastated if that happened to me or anyone that I know,” Shapiro added.

Officer Mazurkiewicz will have his final resting place at White Haven Memorial Park to continue his watch over the city.