A Long Island bridge now bears a lasting tribute to New York State Trooper James M. MacLarnon, who died in the line of duty nearly a century ago. Long Island Bridge Honors Trooper James M. MacLarnon

The New York State Police said the Wantagh State Parkway bridge over the Southern State Parkway was dedicated in MacLarnon’s memory during an Oct. 2 ceremony. State Police members were joined by Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, state Sen. Steven Rhoads and Shannon Fredericks, representing Assemblyman David McDonough.

A trooper remembered nearly 96 years later

MacLarnon died Jan. 19, 1931, after he was struck by a vehicle while serving with the State Police. According to the agency, he had served for four years and was among the original members of Troop K assigned to patrol the Long Island parkways.

His public service began before his State Police career. MacLarnon served with the 71st Infantry Regiment of the New York National Guard. State Police also said he received an award in 1926 after saving two canoeists from drowning in the Hudson River.

A permanent memorial on Long Island

The bridge dedication gives motorists and residents a visible reminder of MacLarnon’s service and sacrifice. State Police described the newly named bridge as a lasting tribute to a trooper who gave his life serving New Yorkers.

Bridge and highway dedications are one way communities preserve the stories of public servants whose sacrifices might otherwise become less familiar as generations pass. In MacLarnon’s case, the dedication connects a modern Long Island roadway with a State Police history dating to the early decades of the agency.

Remembering service

MacLarnon’s story includes both military and police service, as well as the earlier Hudson River rescue cited by State Police. The dedication ensures that his name remains part of the public landscape more than nine decades after his death.

Source: New York State Police press release, Oct. 2, 2026.