Patrolman Salvatore Spinola, New York City Police Department, New York

Patrolman Salvatore Spinola

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Thursday, October 2, 1969

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Salvatore Spinola

Patrolman Salvatore Spinola died after being overcome by gas fumes from a manhole while attempting to rescue a trapped civilian.

At approximately 9:20 a.m. Patrolman Spinola and his partner responded to a call of an unconscious man inside a manhole at the corner of Eastern Parkway and Troy Avenue in Brooklyn. When Patrolman Spinola and his partner arrived, they found a civilian trapped in a 10-foot deep manhole. Patrolman Spinola put on a gas mask and entered the manhole, but the mask was ineffective and the fumes overcame him.

Patrolman Spinola had served with the New York City Police Department for 14 years and was assigned to Emergency Services Unit Eight. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, and two sons.

Bio

Age 36
Tour 14 years
Badge 20563

Incident Details

Cause Exposure to toxins

rescue

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I went to grammar school with Officer Spinola's son Ralph. I remember when we were told that Ralph's father died. I later went on to become a NYC Police Officer and assigned to The Emergency Service Unit. I met Officer Spinola's partner Dave who was still in the Unit, and he told me the story. Rest in Eternal Peace you are not forgotten.

Det Eric Becker Ret
NYPD Emergency Service Unit Sq # 9

October 2, 2025