Fernandez, 39, of Saddle Brook, was heading west on snowmobiling trails in Harriestown, NY, when he lost control, left the trail, and traveled down a steep embankment, and struck multiple trees around 2:05 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, New York State Police said.
When troopers arrived on the scene, Saranac Lake Fire and Rescue were rendering aid to Fernandez, who was airlifted to the University of Vermont Medical Center, where he later died of his injuries, police said.
The RPPD penned a heartbreaking tribute to Fernandez, shared to Facebook on Monday, Feb. 3, calling Fernandez a "great cop and an even better person."
"By now, the word has traveled throughout the State and beyond about the sudden passing of one of our own, Officer Steven Fernandez #164 who was involved in a tragic accident over the weekend. As the information traveled throughout our department, so did the raw emotions because such a loss is often too much to process.
"The amount of love and support we have received from everyone is extraordinary. We have seen and appreciate all of the posts, messages, phone calls, texts, emails etc. Although we are all very much grieving and trying to come to terms with this new reality, it’s comforting to know that we have everyone’s support.
"Steve was a great cop and an even better person. His strong ties to our small community where he grew up are unmatched. Besides being a Police Officer, he volunteered many years with the Ridgefield Park Fire Department and Ridgefield Park Ambulance Corp. He was also our current PBA President, LGBTQ+ department liaison, a Registered Nurse, Eagle Scout, and member of the Masonic Lodge.
"For some, it may seem like too much, but this is the person that Steve was. He was as intelligent and knowledgeable as he was caring. To many, he probably seemed reserved at times. However, once you got to know him you knew he was really the life of the party. He lived his life to the fullest and was just a person you wanted to surround yourself with. His energy was contagious.
"As we continue to grieve, we also send our heartfelt condolences to his family, boyfriend, friends, former colleagues, and everyone else whose life he has touched upon. He was an unbelievable person, a great friend, a perfect worker and a kind soul who we will miss every single day. Steve would want us to celebrate his life and not mourn his death. We ask you to do the same. One final thought. Tell your people you love them because you never know when your day will come. Rest easy Steve."
Fernandez joined the police department in 2015. In 2023, Fernandez was appointed the department's LGBTQ+ liaison.
"As the department’s first openly gay male police officer, I hope that I can help strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the LGBTQ+ community," he said at the time. "I’m fortunate to work for a department where my fellow officers and administration have been nothing but supportive. I look forward to working with the community and my fellow officers to continue to bridge the gap.”
Prior to joining the department, Fernandez worked as a registered nurse at Hackensack Meridian University Medical Center.
The RPPD's PBA remembered Fernandez as "a beacon of kindness, laughter, and unwavering support. Steve’s passion for his work and his ability to uplift those around him will be deeply missed."
The news of Fernandez's passing spread extreme shock and sadness, as condolences poured in on Facebook.
"You were always a gentleman and I rarely saw you without a smile on your face," a former colleague wrote. "I’m glad you got to live your dream out in becoming a police officer. You looked truly happy over the years. I hope your friends and family find comfort in knowing how highly people who knew you thought about you. The world needs more people like you. Rest in Peace bud."
"One of the most genuine sonsabitches around," another friend added. "Not the news anyone wants to wake up to… ever. Rest easy, bro. Truly one of the best!"
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