Retired NYPD Chief Anthony Izzo Passes Away at 75 After Long Island Pool Incident

Tragic Loss of Former NYPD Chief Anthony “Tough Tony” Izzo

The New York City law enforcement community is mourning the unexpected passing of Anthony Izzo, a revered former New York City Police Department chief affectionately known as “Tough Tony.” The 75-year-old retired officer died on Friday evening following a tragic incident at his residence on Long Island, where he was discovered unconscious in his backyard swimming pool.

Details of the Stony Brook Incident

Emergency services were alerted to the situation around 7:45 p.m. on Friday after a relative discovered Izzo motionless in the pool at his home, situated near Malverne Lane in Stony Brook. Local law enforcement officers alongside members of the Stony Brook Fire Department promptly arrived at the scene and pulled him from the water.

First responders immediately initiated CPR in an attempt to revive the retired chief before rushing him to nearby Stony Brook University Hospital. Despite their rapid response and intensive life-saving measures, medical personnel were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Official Investigation Findings

Investigators from the Suffolk County Police Department have launched an inquiry into the tragic drowning. Based on preliminary assessments, police officials noted that there are currently no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances surrounding the event. While detectives continue to examine the exact events leading up to the drowning, law enforcement has clearly indicated that no criminal activity is suspected.

A Distinguished Career Dedicated to Public Service

Anthony Izzo left an indelible mark on New York City throughout his extensive tenure with the NYPD. Over the course of his distinguished career, he rose through the ranks to occupy some of the department’s most critical leadership roles:

• He served as the Chief of the Organized Crime Control Bureau, placing him in one of the most senior executive leadership positions within the entire police department.
• He commanded the 115th Precinct in 1995, where he earned widespread respect for his strong leadership, strategic direction, and unwavering dedication to community safety.

Honoring a Legacy of Dedicated Service

News of Izzo’s sudden death has drawn heartfelt tributes from across the law enforcement landscape. Former colleagues, current officers, and community members have come together to honor a leader whose career was defined by integrity and selfless public service. For those who served alongside him, his legendary nickname reflected a steadfast dedication to protecting New Yorkers.

As his family, friends, and fellow officers grieve this profound loss, the broader NYPD community continues to commemorate his decades of service and the lasting contributions he made to public safety across New York City.