06/01/2026
Today we remember Trooper Sean O’Connell Jr.
Sean M. O'Connell Jr. was born on September 10, 1974, in West Islip, New York, to Diane Tufaro and Sean O'Connell Sr. He spent his formative years attending Pawling High School in New York before moving to Washington State. O'Connell continued his education by attending Olympic College and the University of Phoenix, earning an Associate of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice.
His life of service to his community and country began with the United States Navy in October 1992. O'Connell served over four years and participated in the liberation of Kuwait following Operation Desert Storm, earning numerous awards and commendations.
After the military, O'Connell's desire to continue to serve lead him to the Washington State Patrol. Hired as a trooper cadet on July 15, 1998, O'Connell became a member of the 82nd Trooper Basic Training Class. Trooper O'Connell was commissioned on March 1, 1999, and assigned to Marysville. He joined the Marysville motors unit in May 2012. Trooper O'Connell's tenure with the patrol included being selected as Trooper of the Year in 2003.
Trooper Sean M. O'Connell, Jr., died on May 31, 2013, at the age of 38. The Skagit River Bridge had collapsed just a week prior, creating an increase of traffic on arterial roads being utilized as detours. Trooper O'Connell was riding his motorcycle, checking the length of the back up in Conway in the area of Fir Island Road and Greenfield Street when he was struck and killed by a box truck. At the time of his death, Trooper O'Connell had served almost 15 years with the Washington State Patrol.
Trooper O'Connell's wife, Alissa, lives in Snohomish with their two children, Kian (age 20) and Miley (age 17). Kian is attending Everett Community College. Miley is currently a senior. His father, Sean O'Connell, Sr., and step-mom, Rita, split their time between their homes in New York and Florida. Sean's mother, Diane Tufaro and her spouse, Carole, built a home in Massachusetts. Sean's brother Francis is an emergency doctor and his wife, Maripili, is a global recruiter for IRC (International Rescue Committee). They live with their three children in Arlington, Virginia. Sean has two younger sisters. Julia, graduated from Ross University with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). Lauren graduated Siena College in Loudonville, New York, with her degree in engineering. She works with Glumac/Tretra Tech Engineering Firm in Seattle. Their mother, Loretta O'Hara, who was also Sean's mom as he was growing up, lives in Pawling, New York. Sean's grandmother, Virginia, lives in Massapequa, New York and will turn 100 in September.
On December 6, 2013, the new Skagit River Bridge was named in honor of fallen Trooper Sean M. O'Connell, Jr., preserving his memory in a place traveled daily by countless members of the public. This enduring dedication stands as a reminder of his service, his sacrifice, and the legacy he left behind.
On May 30, 2014, a dedication ceremony of the memorial to honor and remember Trooper Sean M. O'Connell, Jr., was held at the Marysville District Office. When you visit the Marysville District Office, take a moment to stop by the beautiful memorial that was created in remembrance of Trooper O'Connell.
In May of 2014, Trooper O'Connell was awarded the Medal of Honor, posthumously, for his actions on May 31, 2013, by the Law Enforcement – Medal of Honor Committee.
In May 2023, a ceremony was held at the Marysville District Office to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Trooper O'Connell's sacrifice. The event provided an opportunity for reflection and remembrance, honoring his service and the enduring legacy he left within the Washington State Patrol and the community he served.
Please take a moment to remember Trooper O'Connell and his family.
