Chief of Patrol Passed away from 9/11-Related Illness
By Hank Russell
The Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) is mourning the loss of its chief of patrol, Kevin Canavan, who died on June 30 from a 9/11-related illness.
Canavan began his career with the NCPD in 1985 as a recruit. He steadily rose through the ranks of police officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, deputy inspector, inspector, deputy chief, assistant chief, and Chief of Patrol becoming our second highest ranking uniformed officer overseeing over 2,000 members, both sworn and civilian.
In addition, Canavan was appointed to many specialized units and held other designations during his career due to his experience, knowledge, and expertise, one of which consisted of being a helicopter pilot in the Aviation Unit, which was his true love. He recently developed a Drone Detection Unit within the Marine and Aviation Bureau, which was utilized during last month’s Cricket World Cup to ensure the safety of the residents, visitors, players, and members.
He was also a decorated officer who received many awards and citations for his dedication to the residents he served. Canavan was also recently awarded the 2024 Theodore Roosevelt Award for his tireless work ethic even when seriously ill due to complications of a 9/11-related cancer contracted from his exposure during the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero.
“I have known Kevin for over 38 years and can say that he was one of the most professional and brightest law enforcement professionals that I have ever had the honor to work with,” said Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder. “Chief Canavan was always a cop’s cop and the rank and file loved working for and with him. Kevin would always roll up his sleeves and get the job done, no matter how long it may have taken. The Chief served the Nassau County Police Department with loyalty, integrity, fairness and excellence.”
Ryder recalled when Canavan was in his hospital bed and he invited his top chiefs and other high-ranking officials to meet with him to go over the operational plan for the Cricket World Cup. “Need I say more, this was classic Chief of Patrol Kevin Canavan, always serving the department, even when seriously ill,” Ryder said. “Kevin will be sorely missed for his dedication to law enforcement and even more missed by many others, as he was so dedicated to his family and friends. My condolences go out to all.”
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman ordered all flags to be flown half-staff at all county buildings in remembrance of Canavan.
“Chief Canavan was the consummate law enforcement professional with high intellect, integrity, and passion,” Blakeman said. “His passing is a loss to the men and women of the Nassau County Police Department and the public.”
Nassau County Legislative Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D-Glen Cove) said, “During his decorated 39-year career in the Nassau County Police Department, Kevin Canavan exemplified the values of professionalism, dedication and commitment that fueled his ascension through the ranks of the Nassau County Police Department – and his passion for serving and protecting the public shined through right until the very end of his valiant battle with 9/11-related cancer. All of us in the Minority Caucus are heartbroken by the loss of Chief Canavan, and our prayers and heartfelt sympathies are with his family, friends and colleagues as they mourn the loss of a remarkable public servant and an even greater man.”
Funeral arrangements for Canavan were not available as of press time.