Missing NYPD Officer Recovered From Long Island Estuary, Police Investigate
Suffolk County Police have begun an investigation into the death of a fellow NYPD officer whose body was recovered from the Nissequogue River on Saturday.
Patrick Luca, 41, was kayaking in Smithtown Bay with his 5-year-old son Caden on Friday when their inflatable kayak allegedly capsized. Caden was found alone, floating in the water by boater Ted Sandomenico, approximately 90 minutes after they'd taken to the water.
“It was just very, very lucky, that’s all,” said Sandomenico.
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From the boy's account, police have concluded that a passing boat knocked them off balance.
After he was found, the kayak was found 500 yard offshore. Luca's body was discovered by another recreational boater the next day. While Caden was found wearing a life jacket, Coast Guards say there is no evidence that Luca was wearing one.
Police have not confirmed that the death occurred due to the boat capsizing. Coast Guard Petty Officer Erik Swanson said that despite Friday's weather and winds being "calm," there is still a possibility weather could have played a part in the incident.
Police have so far determined that a capsizing was most likely not the cause of the accident. They have deduced this through items that have been uncovered that would have sunk if a capsizing had occurred.
“He was a young man, a strong young man with a small child,” local resident Meredith Cuomo told CBS New York.
”Something must have gone wrong.”
Meanwhile police continue to investigate, and funeral arrangements will be made after an autopsy is completed.
Luca is spoken very highly of by those who knew him.
Friend Joel Reinleib called Lucas, "A fine police officer."
“A very caring family man, a great father figure," he added.
"It’s definitely a loss for us,” said NYPD officer Roy Sullo.
New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly expressed “deepest condolences” to Luca's family on behalf of the NYPD in a statement.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg also released written statement, saying, "My heart and prayers go out to Officer Luca’s wife and children, loved ones and friends. And I want to offer condolences on behalf of a city grateful for his service and dedication to protecting New Yorkers."
