Castellano Family: Follow Officer's Example of 'Selfless Service'

NEW HAVEN, CT —His life was a gift, one shared with his family, his police colleagues and the many communities he served as a 7-year veteran of the New Haven Police Department, his family said in a statement issued Monday.

Castellano was killed last week in a car crash in Las Vegas. He was 35.

"Amid our unimaginable heartbreak and grief over the tragic loss of Joshua, we are comforted by the overwhelming love and expressions of support from Joshua’s Police Officer family, his friends and the Yale community. Joshua’s life was a gift, and we are grateful that he could share part of it with his colleagues at the New Haven Police Department and with the countless community members he encountered while proudly serving on the police force. Joshua approached his life and work with unmatched passion and excitement, and his genuine love for people was infectious.

We hope that others will honor Joshua’s memory by following his excellent example of selfless service to the community. As we pray for strength during this dark time, we will celebrate Joshua’s remarkable life and the light and joy he brought to our lives and the lives of so many."

In a Fund the First appeal in honor of Castellano, it's noted that "during his short but impactful career," he worked in the Westville and Hill neighborhoods and was part of the Narcotics Enforcement Unit and the Shooting Task Force.

Described as "loyal, compassionate, reliable," it reads that he "approached every aspect of his life with passion and excitement."

"Josh made every person love him without even trying, and so many people will miss him dearly," the appeal reads. With a goal to raise $50,000, it has in two days raised more than $40,000.

"Besides being an incredible officer, Josh was an even better son, who leaves behind his wonderful mother, Denise, as well as countless friends," the Fund the First reads. "We are praying for Josh’s family and friends during this time. Rest easy brother, we will take it from here."

Please find his obituary here.