Tree Dedicated to Domestic Violence Victims

Ann Pabo and her son, Connele, a sixth grader at , spent many happy hours and quality mother-and-son time at the and its adjacent playground.

So it was fitting that when friends and neighbors wanted to mark the anniversary of their passing, they thought of . 

Ann and Connele Pabo were killed last year at the hands of domestic partner and father Scott Maxwell, who then committed suicide by jumping in front of a train.

In a heartfelt ceremony on Thursday, July 21, a dogwood tree donated by Decker’s Nursery in Greenlawn was planted at the park. The play area will be renamed “Ann & Connele’s Playground” in honor of the close-knit mother and son. Speakers at the ceremony reflected on this tragic loss and the devastating impact of domestic violence.

Huntington Town Supervisor Frank Petrone, the Town Board, Northport Schools Superintendent Marylou McDermott, East Northport Middle School Principal Joanne Kroon and Assistant Principal Pat DeStefano, and School Board Trustee Tammie Topel and her young daughter were among those in attendance.