The East Fishkill Police Department confirmed the death of Police Officer Daniel DiDato, who suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident while on the job Monday night, the department said.
DiDato was driving to Westchester Medical Center to conduct a crash investigation around 6 p.m., when his vehicle left the Taconic State Parkway and struck a tree, according to police.
He was taken to Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.
DiDato had worked on the force since Jan. 2, 2005, after serving four years in law enforcement with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection.
“Officer DiDato was everything that encompassed a great police officer and friend; He was genuine, smart, courageous, tough, and witty,” the East Fishkill Police Department said in a statement on Tuesday.
To recognize DiDato's sacrifice, Gov. Kathy Hochul directed flags on all state buildings lowered to half-staff Wednesday.
"Officers across New York serve and protect their neighbors and communities, and we feel this loss deeply. I extend prayers and condolences from all New Yorkers to the loved ones of Officer DiDato," she said in a statement.