M.S. 101 Commemorates Its Namesake P.O. Edward R. Byrne

Students, community and police leaders joined in commemorating the memory of slain NYPD police officer Edward R. Byrne on Tuesday, February 27 at M.S. 101 which was named in his honor. Members of the NYPD, including Commissioner James O’Neill, along with local leaders and police officer Byrne’s oldest brother, Larry Byrne, attended the event to share the story of the life and legacy of police officer Byrne. Byrne, 22, was assassinated on February 26, 1988 around 3:30 a.m. while sitting inside his marked patrol car at 107th Avenue and Inwood Street in South Jamaica, Queens. He was assigned to keep watch over the house of a local Guyanese immigrant who frequently reported illegal activities on his street to police. All four killers Philip Copeland, Todd Scott, Scott Cobb and David McClary were arrested and charged with Byrne’s murder within a week of the incident.

James Vacca (l) and NYPD Chief of the Transit Bureau Edward Delatorre presented a framed photo stating ‘To Police Officer Edward R. Byrne School with Profound Respect for The Man who wore this Badge with Honor.’

Photo by Aracelis Batista

Police and community leaders joined in remembering the legacy of police officer Byrne.

Photo by Aracelis Batista

Police Commissioner O’Neill (l) met with Patrick Lynch before the ceremony.

Photo by Aracelis Batista

(l-r) Police officer Rodriguez; James Vacca; Police Commissioner O’Neill; Maria Leonard, M.S. 101 Parent Teacher Association president and retired police officer; Teresa Wong, M.S. 101 parent coordinator and John Marano.

Photo by Aracelis Batista

Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr.’s Office presented a proclamation to police officer Byrne’s brother Larry Bryne (r) and to M.S. 101 named in his honor.

Photo by Aracelis Batista