Remembering Broome County Deputy Kevin Tarsia: A Hero Lost on the Fourth of July

Every Fourth of July, we gather with family and friends to celebrate our country’s independence. Fireworks lighting the sky, flags waving proudly, the sound of laughter and unity filling the air, although this year, things look a lot different following the storms that ravaged much of the area yesterday.

For the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and those who knew and loved Deputy Kevin Tarsia, Independence Day carries a solemn undertone. It’s not just a day of freedom, but also a day of remembrance.

Twenty-three years ago, Deputy Kevin J. Tarsia gave his life in the line of duty, protecting the very freedoms we honor. Today, we pause to reflect on his bravery, his sacrifice, and the legacy he left behind.

The Night That Changed Everything

In the early hours of July 4, 2002, Deputy Tarsia was patrolling Grange Hall Park in Kirkwood, near the New York/Pennsylvania border. Unknown to him, just moments earlier, suspects had burglarized a firearms store in Great Bend, Pennsylvania, and were transferring stolen weapons between vehicles.

When Deputy Tarsia approached, two of the suspects opened fire. Fifteen rounds were discharged. Deputy Tarsia was struck and killed on the scene. After taking his service weapon and additional items from his patrol car, the men fled.

It was a brutal, senseless act against a man simply doing his job, watching over his community as they slept.

Justice Brought, But Hearts Still Broken

In the days that followed, all three suspects were caught. Two were charged with first-degree murder in New York and sentenced to life in prison without parole. The third was charged with criminal possession of a weapon. Additional charges for burglary were filed in Pennsylvania.

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Years later, one of the convicted murderers escaped from Clinton Correctional Facility in a widely publicized prison break. After a massive manhunt, he was shot and recaptured near the Canadian border on June 28, 2015. The escape brought renewed attention and heartache for those who still mourn Deputy Tarsia.

A Life of Service, A Legacy of Courage

Deputy Kevin Tarsia served the Broome County Sheriff’s Office for 13 years. He wasn’t just a law enforcement officer- he was a son, a brother, an uncle, and a friend. He was the kind of person who stepped up when others stepped back, who ran toward danger to keep others safe.

Deputy Tarsia was survived by his loving parents, three brothers, two sisters, and a large extended family that continues to carry his memory forward. His name is etched in stone, both literally on memorial walls and figuratively in the hearts of those who knew him.

Forever in Our Hearts

As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us also take a quiet moment to remember the man who gave his life so that others could celebrate in peace. Deputy Tarsia’s service reminds us that freedom isn’t free, it’s protected every day by people like him who put on the badge with courage and honor.

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To his family, friends, and fellow officers: we remember with you, and we are grateful. Deputy Kevin Tarsia, your watch may have ended, but your legacy will never fade. End of Watch: July 4, 2002. Never forgotten.