On a late summer day, August 30, 1982, New York State Trooper Gary Kubasiak, a 32-year-old male, responded to a call in Dayton. A man, who was known to Trooper Kubasiak, had barricaded himself inside his residence on Route 62. A nine-year veteran of the State Police and a U.S. Army veteran who served in Vietnam, Kubasiak, accompanied by his canine partner, went to the scene hoping to de-escalate the situation through his personal connection with the individual.
Upon entering the home,
Trooper Kubasiak attempted to engage the man in conversation in the kitchen. Without warning, the man suddenly opened fire with a rifle. Trooper Kubasiak was struck before he had any opportunity to react or defend himself. The shots proved to be fatal, ending the life of the dedicated officer. In the ensuing response, other officers on the scene shot and subsequently arrested the suspect.
The man responsible for Trooper Kubasiak's death was later convicted of murder. He received a sentence of 35 years to life in prison for his actions. According to records, he is scheduled to become eligible for parole in 2025. Trooper Kubasiak was survived by his wife and two sons, who were inspired by their father's legacy and both went on to become New York State Troopers.
