North Massapequa Street Renamed To Honor Slain Police Officer

NORTH MASSAPEQUA, NY — On Aug. 2, 1979, NYPD Officer Michael Russell was gunned down while trying to arrest a man who had just killed a civilian. On the 40th anniversary of his death, town officials honored Russell as a "true American hero," unveiling a street sign near his home in North Massapequa.

Officer Russell had been at a public school softball field playing with several other officers and community members when a trio of men walked across the field, interrupting the game. When a civilian in the outfield asked the men to leave, one of them pulled out a revolver, opened fire and ran off with Russell and several other off-duty officers chasing him.

The assailant was later struck in a shootout with police after becoming trapped on the 200 block of Essex Street on the Lower East Side. Russell was shot in the stomach trying to detain the gunman and died at a hospital hours later.

The gunman, an 18-year-old, was convicted of murder and manslaughter and sentenced to life in prison.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, the town board and NYPD Commissioner James O'Neil conducted a ceremonial street renaming dedication saturday in Russel's honor. Several hundred people reportedly watched the unveiling of a street sign at the corner of North Utica Avenue and North Broadway in North Massapequa.

The sign now reads "NYPD Police Officer Michael Russell Way."

"Officer Russell was loved and respected by residents of New York City as well as the community where he grew up," Saladino said in a news release. "To those who had the pleasure to know Michael, it was no surprise that he was able to leave such an indelible mark, both socially and professionally. Officer Russell was a Top Cop in the bravest sense and did not hesitate to take action, even if the situation was perilous. He put the safety of New York City's residents ahead of his own."

Russell was remembered for making countless friends and for being a devoted husband and father who loved the police force and enjoyed playing sports. He was energetic and his heart was as big as the state, officials said.

"Police Officer Russell is a 'True American Hero' and the Town of Oyster Bay will never forget his service and sacrifice for our residents," said Saladino. "Officer Russell paid the ultimate price serving his fellow citizens. This street, in the community where he lived for many years, will serve as a reminder to all residents of his sacrifice and his extraordinary life."

Grace DeSimone Russell, Michael's wife, also spoke at the event, according to video published by Newsday. She implored people who see the sign to "think of the man who enjoyed life," and left a legacy of love and respect.

"Don't dwell on that heroic act of 40 years ago that ended in tragedy," she said. "It's an honor, but it's not what we dwell on."