David Cunniff - Law Enforcement - New York State

Trooper David Cunniff, age 35, of Duanesburg, died in the line of duty on December 17, 2013, at a hospital in Albany, New York.

David was a member of the New York State Police. He had 9 years of service.

Shortly before 8:00 p.m., on December 16, 2013, Trooper Cunniff  made a traffic stop of a speeding vehicle on the New York State Thurway at Exit 27. He had pulled onto the shoulder. His emergency lights were flashing.  A semi-trailer struck his cruiser car from behind.  David was partially ejected from the vehicle.  He was transported to a local hospital with massive injuries and never regained consciousness.  

The semi-trailer was driven by a 65 year old man from Canada, who was hauling insulation materials. 

The cause of the collision is under investigation.  Alcohol and bad weather do not appear to be factors in the crash. 

Michael, Archangel, Patron
Saint of the Police, pray for
David and for his loved ones
who have lost him

David was assigned to Troop T.  He had previously worked in Troops B and G and was a member of the Executive Services Detail at the state Capitol.

In March of 2012, the troopers Police Benevolent Association held a fundraiser for David's son Caleb, age 6, who suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type II. A wheelchair was purchased for the boy.

The New York State Police are in mourning over the death of their brother. 

David is survived by many loving comrades, friends and family members, including his wife Amy; and his sons, Caleb, age 6, and Zachary, age 4.

Thank you for your service, David.

Pray for all who die in the line of duty.

Pray for all who die by misadventure. They are with us one moment and gone the next.

Pray that David is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.