PAPBA News

On April 7, a man became disruptive on a packed AirTrain car at the JFK Terminal 4 station, producing a box cutter and attempting to menace and stab multiple passengers. He exited the train, returned and continued threatening riders before fleeing. Port Authority police officers canvassed the AirTrain system and received additional reports from victims indicating the suspect had also threatened them with the weapon. Officers located the individual at the Federal Circle Station and took him into custody. A box cutter and a quantity of narcotics were recovered following the arrest. Read More

Rest in peace, Tulane County, California, Sheriff’s Detective Randy Hoppert (EOW 4/9/2026). Detective Hoppert was shot and killed after responding to a call for help from deputies who had come under a volley of gunfire while serving an eviction order. Detective Hoppert was 45 years old, a six-year veteran of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office and a U.S. Navy veteran. He is survived by his expectant wife and three children. Randy, rest in the Lord’s eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten. Read More

Rest in peace, Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Vernon Brake (EOW 4/8/2026). Trooper Brake was patrolling Interstate 35 in Oklahoma City when a vehicle reportedly lost control in the opposite lane while attempting to avoid debris, crossed into his lane and struck his patrol vehicle head-on, killing him. He was a 19-year veteran of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and is survived by his wife and two children. This tragic incident also killed the 36-year-old driver of the other vehicle and her 4-year-old daughter. Trooper, rest in the Lord’s eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten. Read More

On this holiday and every day, the Port Authority PBA acknowledges and thanks the men and women of the Port Authority Police Department for their dedication to the safety and security of our communities. Their work is demanding and carried out with selfless professionalism in service to the people of New York, New Jersey and the millions who use Port Authority facilities each day. We are proud to represent our nation’s finest police officers and wishes all who celebrate a blessed and happy Easter. Please keep in mind the men and women who will not be with their families today as they work to protect you and your loved ones. Read More

On Friday, April 3, the Port Authority PBA joined public unions from across New York State at the Fix Tiers Five and Six Rally, held at Suffolk County Community College’s Grant Campus in Brentwood, New York. Port Authority PBA officials in attendance included First Vice President Mike Mollahan, Treasurer Steve Ekizian, Recording Secretary Shaun Kehoe, Trustee Chairman Tariq Abdool, BT Delegate Patrick Finneran, JFK Delegate Rob Joseph and LGA Delegate Seth Friedman. Read More

Rest in peace, Jackson County, Mississippi, Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Jamerson (EOW 4/1/2026). Deputy Jamerson responded to a disturbance call at a local apartment complex. Gunfire erupted during a foot pursuit of a suspect that resulted in the fatal shooting of Jamerson. He was 61 years old and had served with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for 16 years. Michael, rest in the Lord’s eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten. Read More