UTICA, N.Y. -- Family and friends have a new memorial to honor late Officer William D. Chapman. He was killed in the line of duty in a car accident en route to assist another officer on July 19, 1980.
William D. Chapman Drive, which ran along the west side of the police department, was dedicated shortly after his death. Chapman Drive was removed because of construction of the public’s safety campus. Friday, a flagpole in his honor was dedicated where Chapman drive once used to be.
"When they did the street sign that was very nice. I understand why they eliminated it. It just reminds us that he was a great police man, a great person and we all miss him very much," said his daughter, Melissa Chapman.
Family and friends have a new memorial to honor late Officer William D. Chapman.
"When they did the construction around here awhile back and did away with Chapman Drive that really hurt. Of course a lot of the police officers that are here now didn't know Bill because it's been so long. When I heard they were going to dedicate this out here, I was very pleased," said retired Utica Police Lieutenant Henry LaFlair.
Officer Chapman served as a patrolman for the Utica Police Department for 15 years.