The General Assembly unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Assembly Deputy Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco to honor the first Dover Township police officer who died in the line of duty by renaming the Rt. 46 Bridge in his honor.

“Officer DeShazo was a selfless public servant who remains a beloved and respected member in the community,” Bucco, R-Morris and Somerset, said. “The Officer Thomas E. DeShazo Memorial Bridge will be a testament to a dedicated officer who gave his life while serving his community.”

DeShazo (Picture from http://doverpolicenj.org/deshazo.html) died from injuries sustained after a motorcycle crash during while he was escorting to a member of Charles Lindbergh’s family on May 22, 1930. During his funeral, local merchants suspended businesses and hundreds of residents lined the streets to pay their respects to the eight-year police veteran.

“Just as Badge Number 1 will always be reserved for Officer DeShazo, the Rt. 46 Bridge will forever stand in memory of a fallen officer,” Bucco said. “I’m honored and privileged to sponsor this resolution on behalf of Office DeShazo’s family and the police officers and residents of Dover Township.”

The Senate approved identical legislation sponsored by Bucco’s father, Sen. Anthony R. Bucco earlier this year and the resolution (AJR-58 / SJR-37)heads to Governor Christie for consideration.

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