Union City dedicates street, building to deceased officer

UNION CITY–Local politicians, police officers, and their families attended a dedication of 43rd Street between Bergenline and Palisade Avenues May 16, in honor of UCPD Officer Ricardo Fernandez, according to the Hudson County View. Fernandez died unexpectedly in December.
“It’s a difficult time for you, but hopefully you can find some solace in knowing that in the City of Union City, he’ll always be remembered,” the View quoted Mayor Brian Stack as saying to attendees, prior to 43rd Street being dedicated as Police Officer Ricardo Fernandez Way.
The event was part of the 2017 National Police Week, remembering officers slain on duty.
It also came less than a week after UCPD Officer Mark Zeitounian died in a car crash in East Rutherford. Zeitounian’s funeral was held Friday, according to Director of Operations Erin Knoedler.
“We decided this week that we were going to take one day of Police Week and honor somebody who is truly somebody special to [the] Union City Police Department,” said Police Chief Richard Molinari, according to the media outlet. “Ricky Fernandez was the epitome of a cop’s cop. Ricky truly loved to come to work, to get on his motorcycle, and patrol the streets of Union City.”
Fernandez, who was part of the department’s motorcycle unit, will also have his name etched onto the motorcycle squad building, according to the View. It will now be called the ” Police Officer Ricardo Fernandez Motorcycle Squad Building.”
“I want to thank all who have come here today in memory of my young brother, beloved young brother, Rick,” said brother Julio Fernandez, according to the View. “As you all know, he’s left us to serve in God’s kingdom, but [he’s] still with us spiritually.”