A street in Hicksville has been renamed in honor of a fallen NYPD officer and 9/11 recovery worker.
NYPD officer Terence Connelly died in February 2021 of 9/11-related cancer from exposure to toxins while helping recovery efforts at Ground Zero.
“He was on the job pretty much his entire career, and he was just about to retire right when the cancer hit,” said his sister-in-law, Erin Connelly.
The dedicated 21-year member of the NYPD was born into a family of police officers and military veterans.
Blueberry Lane, the Hicksville street where he was raised alongside seven siblings, is now called Terence Connelly Way in his honor.
The new sign was unveiled during a ceremony just a few feet from where Connelly’s parents still reside.
News 12’s Antoinette Biordi spoke with the family after the ceremony. His brother, John Connelly, says the unveiling brought back strong childhood memories.
“This is like my childhood…Just standing on this corner, throwing a football or playing baseball in the street. Just being kids together,” he said
“It's wonderful. I never expected it. I’m just very grateful to everybody for their hard work,” said his mother Mary Connelly.
Connelly’s wife and son see the street dedication as a fitting tribute to the hometown hero.
“He was always our hero, and we're just glad to see him remembered this way,” said Jennifer Connelly.
“I think it's great because I never really knew this many people who knew him. I think it's great they came here,” said Julian Connelly.