New York City Councilmember Marjorie Velázquez joined Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and members of the NYPD’s 45th Precinct and Police Service Area 8 on Oct. 13 to unveil the “Officer Richard Lopez Way” street co-naming.
Lopez, who served with the NYPD for 20 years, died in 2018 at the age of 52 from a 9/11-related illness. Prior to his time as a police officer, Lopez served his country in the United States Marine Corps. Community members and family members remembered Lopez for his long-standing history with the community, dedication, and heroic efforts during the September 11 terrorist attacks.
“Both as a Marine and as an officer of the New York Police Department, officer Lopez embodied the sense of duty that drives our men and women of the New York City Police Department,” Velázquez said. “Officer Lopez made the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect and serve those that needed the most help, in the aftermath of the tragic events that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001.”
His name can now be commemorated at the Randall Avenue and Cross Bronx Expressway Extension.
“Officer Lopez’s heroic efforts and legacy will forever be remembered by his fellow police officers and family, as well as etched in our borough’s history throughout his community,” Velázquez said.
For more coverage, follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @bronxtimes
