"Decades Of Legacy': Law Enforcement Mourns Retired NYPD Chief From Long Island Who Drowned At His Home

LONG ISLAND, NY — Retired New York Police Department chief, Anthony Izzo, who drowned in a pool at his Stony Brook home over the weekend, is being remembered for his dedication to his fellow officers and Italian-American community.

The NYPD on Saturday said its members were in mourning over the death of Izzo, who was the former chief of the department's Organized Crime Control Bureau.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and the NYPD members who have served with him," a post on facebook stated. "His decades-long legacy will continue to inspire the Finest for generations."

In another post, the NYPD's Columbia Association leadership said members are mourning his "sudden passing" and extend their "deepest condolences to his family, friends, and his fellow members of the NYPD."

Izzo was described as "more than a distinguished member" of the NYPD.

He was a lifetime member of the Columbia Association, a former Man of the Year honoree, and a longtime supporter and friend of the association.

"His dedication to the department, his fellow officers, and the Italian-American community left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him," the post stated. "We are grateful for his years of service, his friendship, and his continued support of our association."

Izzo drowned in a backyard pool on Friday night, Suffolk police said.

A 911 caller reported that a family member, Izzo, 75, was found unresponsive in a pool at the Malverne Lane home, and officers responded at around 7:45 p.m., police said.

Officers and members of the Stony Brook Fire Department pulled Izzo from the pool and performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation to no avail, according to police.

Izzo, who lived at the home, was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and the many members of the NYPD who knew and respected him,' the post continued. "Rest in peace, chief."

"Your service and legacy will never be forgotten," the post concluded.

In a another post to the page for the 115th Precinct in Jackson Heights where Izzo was commanding officer in 1995, said officers there were in mourning over Izzo's death.

"His leadership and dedication to the people of New York City left a lasting legacy," the post stated. "Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. May he rest in peace."

Izzo's fellow officers remembered him as tough, but fair.

One wrote: "The guy made my life a living hell while I was a Lt. in [narcotics], but he prepared me for what was to come. RIP chief."

Another described him as "one of the last from the 'real police' generation."

Another officer told of how one of the best days of his job was when he passed wheel school and became a motorcycle cop.

"He was so proud and worked hard on it. A very fair boss," he added.

Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Branch Funeral Home in Smithtown. A Roman Catholic mass will be held Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. at Saints Philip and James R.C. Church in St. James. Interment will take place at Holy Sepulchre in Coram.