Hospital Wing Named After Slain Cape Cod Police Officer

NEW BEDFORD, MA – South renamed its inpatient pediatric unit at St. Luke's Hospital after Sgt. Sean Gannon, a Yarmouth police officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty April 12. The K-9 Sgt. Sean McNamee Gannon Pediatric Unit was dedicated at a private ceremony Sept. 18, according to Southcoast Health.

Gannon was shot in the head while serving a warrant on 29-year-old Thomas Latanowich, who has been charged with the killing. Gannon's dog, Nero, was also shot but survived his injuries.

"The tragic loss of K-9 Officer Sgt. Sean M. Gannon was deeply personal for many of us here at Southcoast," Keith A. Hovan, president and CEO of Southcoast Health, said in a statement. "Both of Sean’s parents – Denise Morency and Patrick Gannon – are well-known and respected employees here, and Sean, his brother, Tim, and sister, Martha, were born right here at St. Luke’s. Learning of Sean’s passing and this terrible tragedy was devastating to all of us who know and work alongside the Gannons. We all share their profound sadness."

The wing includes a 17-foot-long art installation that has photos of Gannon's life and an inscription, which reads in part:

"K-9 Sgt. Sean M. Gannon leaves a legacy of virtue, valor and kindness throughout his public service. He inspires us all, through his example, to be our best selves on behalf of others. His legacy lives on through every good deed done and kind gesture provided, making a positive difference in our community."

The Southcoast Health Board of Trustees unanimously approved Hovan's request to name the wing in Gannon's honor.

"We are proud to be able to honor his legacy in this way, but moreover we are appreciative of the contributions Sean has made to the welfare of the community," Jason Rua, chair of the Southcoast Health board of trustees, said in a statement.

Photo: Yarmouth Police Officer Sean Gannon, shot and killed in the line of duty in Barnstable April 12, 2018. (Credit: Yarmouth Police Department)