Patrolman Thomas Albino

North Jersey Record Aug. 5, 2019
Lyndhurst cop killed in 1947 is honored 72 years later

Lyndhurst police officers place wreath at the rededication of Thomas J. Albino Memorial Park. Liam Quinn, North Jersey Record

LYNDHURST — More than half a century has passed since Police Officer Thomas J. Albino was killed, but the town does not want time to leave its fallen officer behind.

On Monday morning, with police officers and members of Albino's extended family in attendance, Lyndhurst rededicated the park on Orient Way and Valley Brook Avenue to him.

"Regardless of the time that's passed since one of the darkest days in our community's history," said Lyndhurst Mayor Robert Giangeruso, "the memory of Officer Albino and his sacrifice will continue to flourish through this park."

Lyndhurst has had four officers killed in the line of duty in its history, with Albino being the latest. That number is the most of any municipality in Bergen County, with Teaneck sharing the tragic distinction.

Albino was accompanying a court officer serving an eviction notice on August 5, 1947, when the occupant of the home opened fire, killing him.

The house where he was killed, described in a 1947 article in The Record as a "squalid 3-room shack," was on Monroe Street, near the Passaic River.

Albino was survived by his wife and two children, who were 12 and 8 years old at the time. Albino's son, Tommy, died a few years ago, but his daughter, Joyce, still lives in Lyndhurst. She was unable to attend the rededication.

"Leaving behind a young family, Albino paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting our community," Giangeruso said Monday.

For Albino's funeral, police mounted an honor guard at Nazare Memorial Home on Ridge Road.

On Monday, police also formed an honor guard. After a wreath was placed by officers, the Albino family put roses in front of it. In attendance were his two grandchildren and his great-nieces and nephews, in addition to other members of his extended family.

Retired Police Officer
New York Police Department

August 5, 2019