Port Chester, New York Police Officer Killed in Crash

A 23-year-old off-duty Port Chester police officer died Sunday afternoon after a motorcycle crash in Orange County, New York.

The 4th of July holiday weekend ended tragically Sunday afternoon in Orange County, NY after a motorcycle crash claimed the life of 23-year-old Christopher Bernal according to the New York State Police.

Motorcycle Crash in Orange County

According to NYSP, the accident happened on July 7th, at approximately 1:50 pm, when Troopers from the State Police barracks in Monroe, NY were dispatched to a serious motor vehicle accident on Route 9W in the town of Highlands, New York. Once on the scene troopers began an investigation which determined that Christopher Bernal was operating a 2004 Honda motorcycle on the northbound side of 9W, when he apparently failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway which then caused him to drive off the roadway and crash into a parked, occupied 2023 GMC Acadia that was in a scenic pull-off.

First responders from the Town of Highlands EMS quickly arrived at the scene and attempted to perform life-saving measures on Bernal and proceeded to transport him to St. Luke’s Hospital, where sadly he succumbed to his injuries. The front-seat passenger of the GMC was also transported to St. Luke's Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Crash Claims Life of Port Chester Police Officer

After the crash, it was discovered that Bernal was an off-duty police officer with the Port Chester Police Department in Westchester, NY. Bernal was a member of the department for approximately a year and was described as a respected and valued member of the community according to a press release from the Village of Port Chester, serving with "unwavering commitment and professionalism." Bernal was also a member of the Eastchester EMS since 2022.

SEE ALSO: Ulster County Man Dies in Motorcycle Accident

Port Chester Police Chief Christopher Rosabella expressed his heartfelt condolences saying,

"In Officer Bernal’s one year with the Police Department, he touched everyone with his smile, his zest for life, and his unparalleled enthusiasm for serving as a police officer. His tragic death deeply affects members of the Port Chester Police Department and the entire community. Our thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support remain with the Bernal family."

Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Bernal’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly challenging time. Rest in peace!