Late NYPD police officer Kevin Gillespie was honored this past Friday March 11, with the renaming of a Fordham street.
Gillespie was killed in the line of duty in 1996 while attempting to apprehend three suspected carjackers, all felons out on parole.
While wearing plain clothes, Gillespie pulled over a BMW that had been car-jacked earlier in the day.
The men inside opened fire, and one bullet hit Gillespie in the shoulder, killing him one hour later.
The green reflective street sign reading ‘Police Officer Kevin Joseph Gillespie Way’ was unveiled at the corner of Grand Concourse and East 184th Street to a crowd comprised of the officer’s family and friends, along with active NYPD, Councilman Ritchie Torres and Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association president Patrick Lynch.
Gillespie was attacked a few days before his 34th birthday.
Before the official unveiling, several hundred people led up by Gillepsie’s family, bagpipers, and flags, marched to the site.
Torres spoke highly of the fallen officer, who had been a Marine prior to joining the NYPD, stating that he had served with selflessness and distinction.
“His legacy will always be remembered,” said Torres, “His name will now be a permanent fixture in our district and ensures that his service will be memorialized.”
Patricia, the officers widow, became teary eyed speaking of her deceased husband, calling him a caring man and a wonderful father.
Gillespie’s sons Robert and Daniel were equally emotional.
The officer’s mother, Theresa, said he was loyal above all else.
