BRENTWOOD, NY – Suffolk County Police Officer Brendon Gallagher is in critical condition following a high-speed pursuit on the Long Island Expressway near Exit 55 in Brentwood.
The incident occurred when Officer Gallagher attempted to stop a 2021 Ford Mustang driven by Cody Fisher, 29, who was reportedly traveling between 95 and 100 miles per hour. During the pursuit, Fisher’s vehicle allegedly sideswiped the officer’s SUV, causing it to veer off the road, collide with a tree, and overturn. Fisher’s car subsequently struck a light post.
Emergency responders worked for over 30 minutes to extricate Officer Gallagher from his vehicle. He was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital, where he underwent a four-hour surgery after suffering a torn aorta and significant internal injuries. As of the latest reports, he remains in critical but stable condition.
Cody Fisher, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, was arrested and charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, second-degree assault, second-degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, and reckless driving. He was arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip.
Officer Gallagher, a three-year veteran of the force, previously served in the U.S. Army National Guard for a decade, including a tour in Afghanistan from 2016 to 2017. Notably, in December 2022, he was injured in the line of duty during an incident involving an emotionally disturbed individual. His commitment to public service has been recognized with multiple awards, including a Purple Heart Medal and a Combat Gold Medal.
In response to this recent tragedy, the community has rallied to support Officer Gallagher and his family. The Law Enforcement Officers Weekend organization has initiated a fundraiser, endorsed by the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association, to assist with medical expenses and recovery needs. All proceeds will be directed to the Gallagher family.
Suffolk County Police Acting Commissioner Robert Waring praised Officer Gallagher’s dedication, stating, “The nature of his injuries are so severe, they are typically considered not survivable. The fact that he is still here with us is nothing short of a miracle.” He urged the public to keep positive thoughts for Gallagher’s recovery.
The incident remains under investigation as the department seeks to understand the full circumstances leading to the crash.
