New Milford Police Officer Dies From Rare Form Of Kidney Cancer

NEW MILFORD, N.J. — A borough police detective died Tuesday after battling a rare form of kidney cancer for nearly three years.

Detective Lt. Brian Long was diagnosed with Stage Four Renal Cell Carcinoma in November. Less than one percent of kidney cancer patients are diagnosed with the disease, literature from the American Cancer Society states.

Police officers and members of the community immediately began raising funds for Long and his family to help him fight the disease. More than $90,000 was donated.

Long was a New York City Police officer before he joined the New Milford Police Department in 1994. He was promoted to sergeant in 2012 and lieutenant in 2015.

"As a New Milford Police Officer, his intelligence, aptitude, and dedication was recognized instantly, and he soon became an integral part of this organization," said Police Chief Frank Ramaci. "Throughout the years, I personally became more and more reliant on Brian, as his technical skills, knowledge, and desire to complete tasks quickly and efficiently were unmatched. In addition, I greatly appreciated his loyalty and support. But most all, I cherished our friendship."

A viewing will be held at Becker Funeral Home at 219 Kinderkamack Road in Westwood Thursday from 1 to 9 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Church Friday at 11 a.m. Internment will follow at Mary Rest Cemetery in Mahwah.

PHOTO: Detective Lt. Brian Long — New Milford Fire Department