Rome community mourns fallen Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen

ROME, NY — The body of fallen Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen was returned to Rome, his hometown Tuesday afternoon at the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home.

Dozens of law enforcement, first responders, and well-wishers lined the streets as Officer Jensen’s hearse made his way from Syracuse.

It was a silent and somber moment at the funeral home as Syracuse police lifted the casket of their fellow officer who died in the line of duty on April 14 along with Onondaga County Sheriff Deputy Michael Hoosock.

“When one member of the family hurts, then all members hurt and that’s the same with the police. When one member hurts, they all hurt,” said Father Paul Angelicchio of St. John The Baptist & Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish.

Angelicchio has known the Jensen family for decades. He went to high school with Michael’s mother and uncle.

He described Michael as a loving young man and is heartbroken that his family has to endure such an indescribable pain.

He was very outgoing, loving, always a smile. He enjoyed whatever he did.

Angelicchio will preside over the mass during Jensen’s funeral. Unfortunately, this is not his first time performing services for a fallen officer.

Nearly 35 years ago the memories of Wallie Howard – the last Syracuse officer to die in the line duty – are still fresh.

“I felt pain but it also brought back memories because I was the Syracuse police Chaplain when Wallie Howard died, and I had to go through all of that with Wallie Howard,” said Angelicchio. “You feel the pain of the family and you’re talking about the police family too and the pain they’re going through, and all those different emotions and they don’t know how to vent, and you can’t suppress it. ”

Chief Joe Cecile said his officers are feeling sadness, confusion, and anger, him included. Many were not able to fight back their tears.

He knows how close Jensen was to his fellow officers and how much he loved putting on his uniform.

The chief said he was heartbroken to see one of his own lose their life in the early stages of their career.

Angelicchio said what’s important now, is being there for the family, friends, and colleagues – his brothers, “You have to be there. You have to support them. There is no certain time for grief. I think it’s important for us to support them as much as we possibly can.”

The calling hours for Jensen will be held here on Friday from 3 pm to 8 pm at the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home.