Large crowds expected for funeral of East Greenbush police officer killed in crash
EAST GREENBUSH -- East Greenbush police officer Ed Witko, 42, was killed in a motorcycle crash Sunday in Petersburgh during a benefit ride.
"He was a good man," said East Greenbush Town Supervisor Rich McCabe. "It's going to be a tough week."
According to New York State Police, Witko somehow lost control of his motorcycle, crossed the center line and crashed head on into an oncoming Toyota Camry on Route 2. Police say Witko had been on a sharp curve on a steep grade at the time.
Investigators were expected to reconstruct the crash. There is no indication of what caused Witko to lose control.
The East Greenbush Police Department says it expect a very large attendance for Witko's funeral. Calling hours are scheduled for Thursday between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., and again on Friday between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. They will take place in the area of Columbia Turnpike and Sherwood Avenue.
The full release on the funeral details follows:
It is with deep regret the East Greenbush Police Department announces the untimely passing of Officer Edward L. Witko, Shield #29, as a result of an off duty traffic accident on Sunday August 15, 2010.
Services are as follows:
Calling hours will be Thursday, August 19, 2010 4pm to 8pm at the St. Mary’s Church located at 163 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush, NY 12061. Parking will be located across the street at K-Mart/Big Lot parking lot at 164 Columbia Turnpike, NY 12061.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, August 20, 2010, at 10am at the St. Mary’s Church located at 163 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush, NY 12061. Interment will be at the New Rural Cemetery located on 3rd Avenue Extension in East Greenbush.
Lunch will be served following the cemetery services at the East Greenbush Fire Company, Park Station at 68 Phillips Road, East Greenbush, NY 12061.
Agencies wishing to send a contingent to the services, Please email Officer Mark Mann at mmann@egpolice.com with a head count and vehicle count.
