Beloved NJ Officer Dies in Upstate New York Snowmobile Accident

Loved NJ Officer Dies in Upstate NY

A beloved New Jersey policeman known for his outstanding community service and compassion, as well as a litany of other talents, passed away in a tragic snowmobile accident in Upstate New York over the weekend.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to the family, friends, colleagues, and community who suffered a significant loss over the weekend when Officer Steven Fernandez from the Ridgefield Park Police passed away in an off-duty snowmobile accident.

Officer Fernandez is pictured here as a member of the Ridgefield Park, New Jersey Police. Photo: Ridgefield Park Police

According to a press release from the New York State Police, on Saturday afternoon, "State Police members responded to the Rail Trails near McMaster Road and McCauley Pond in the town of Harrietstown for a serious personal injury snowmobile accident."

Officer Fernandez was about two and a half hours north of Albany when he tragically died in a snowmobile accident. Photo: Google Maps

What Happened?

The NYSP says that Fernandez was operating his 2024 Polaris 650 when he "lost control, exited the trail, and traversed down a steep embankment, striking multiple trees."

Fernandez was airlifted to the University of Vermont Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Fernandez's colleagues and members of the Ridgefield Park community wrote a heavy-hearted post on Facebook about his desire to serve and protect at a young age, his compassion and loyalty to the community he served, and his bowling prowess, to which he has a perfect game.

Photo: Ridgefield Park Facebook Page

Colleagues React in Heavy-Hearted Post

Here's, in part, what they wrote:

"From his early days as a Boy Scout in Troop 3, where he earned the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout, Steven's life was a testament to service. He graduated from RPHS, where many will remember his bowling career, where he achieved a perfect game.

He served as the PBA President and took on the role of LGBTQ+ department liaison, working to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community.

May his spirit continue to guide and inspire us, reminding us of the power of kindness, service, and love for one's community."

The Capital Region's Worst Roads To Drive In The Snow

Driving in the Capital Region can be a chore in the warmer months. But during the winter, there are some roads local drivers would rather avoid. That applies when the snow falls and in some cases when our wintertime nemesis, pool-sized potholes, begin reproducing like rabbits! Here are the worst Capital Region roads to navigate while driving in the snow according to YOU.

Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff