Assemblyman Stirpe (D-Cicero) announced legislation he sponsored to designate a local bridge as the “Deputy Sheriff Glenn Searles Memorial Bridge” has been signed into law. The law honors fallen Onondaga County officer Glenn Searles, who tragically lost his life assisting a stranded motorist on I-481.

“Deputy Searles put his heart and soul into serving our community, and ultimately lost his life doing just that,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “This memorial will not only allow us to pay tribute to his memory but encourage motorists to use caution when passing stopped emergency vehicles.”

In 2003, Deputy Searles was fatally injured by a passing vehicle on State Route 481 as he attempted to assist a stranded motorist during a snowstorm. This tragic accident helped inspire the Ambrose-Searles Move Over law, which requires motorists to reduce their speed and move away from stopped emergency response vehicles to prevent collisions.

“Deputy Searles was an outstanding young man who never lost sight of the importance of keeping our families and our community safe,” said Peter Ruszczak, vice president of the Syracuse and Central New York Police Retirees Association. “Thanks to the efforts of Assemblyman Stirpe, Deputy Searles’ commitment to helping others will not be forgotten.”

Prior to becoming a sheriff with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department, Searles served as an investigator with the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office. Throughout his career, Searles was known for his dedication to putting the needs of others before his own. The bridge to be named in his honor is located on I-481 between exits 5 and 6.

“Deputy Searles devoted his career and his life to protecting the citizens of Onondaga County,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “Naming this bridge in his honor will allow us to thank him for his service and remind us to appreciate the bravery and selflessness of our law enforcement officers.”