Officer Brendon Gallagher, a Suffolk County police officer and former Army veteran, received a hero’s welcome upon his discharge from Stony Brook University Hospital on Monday, January 23, 2024. The event marked a remarkable recovery from a near-fatal car crash that occurred earlier in the month, leaving Gallagher in critical condition. His release was met with jubilant applause, bagpipes, and a sea of blue from fellow officers who lined the hospital exit to celebrate his resilience and strength. This incident marks the second time in Gallagher’s three-year tenure with the police force that he has faced life-threatening injuries in the line of duty.
Gallagher’s injuries stemmed from a high-speed car chase on January 5, 2024, near exit 55 on the Long Island Expressway. He was pursuing a suspect, later identified as 29-year-old Cody Fisher, who was driving a Ford Mustang under the influence of drugs and alcohol. During the pursuit, Fisher lost control of his vehicle, sideswiping Gallagher’s patrol car and causing it to overturn. The impact of the crash left Gallagher severely injured, requiring immediate medical evacuation via helicopter to Stony Brook University Hospital. Upon arrival, Gallagher was in stage four shock, the most severe level, and spent nine days on life support.
Dr. James Vosswinkel, head of trauma at Stony Brook, described Gallagher’s condition upon arrival as dire, stating that he was “done.” The crash resulted in extensive injuries, including the complete laceration of his abdominal muscles and skin, likely caused by impact with the steering wheel. Gallagher also suffered nerve damage in his legs. Despite the severity of his injuries, Gallagher’s unwavering determination and fighting spirit, combined with the exceptional medical care he received, paved the way for his remarkable recovery. Dr. Vosswinkel praised Gallagher’s resolve and strength, labeling his recovery as nothing short of miraculous.
The incident echoes a previous close call for Gallagher in 2022 when he was stabbed in the chest while attempting to subdue a suspect. The blade penetrated his bulletproof vest, highlighting the inherent dangers he faces as a police officer. His survival of both incidents underscores his resilience and has earned him the moniker of a “miracle” cop within the department. The repeated exposure to such life-threatening situations emphasizes the risks law enforcement officers undertake daily in protecting their communities.
Upon his release from the hospital, Gallagher, sporting a “Gallagher Strong” sweatshirt emblazoned with a logo featuring his distinctive mustache above a police badge, was accompanied by his parents, Michael and Robin Gallagher. His father, a retired corrections officer, and his mother provided unwavering support during his challenging recovery. The family’s emotional reunion was a testament to their close bond and the relief they felt at having their son back home. A motorcade of at least 30 motorcycle officers from Suffolk and Nassau counties escorted the Gallagher family home, signifying the strong camaraderie and support within the law enforcement community.
The incident has sparked outrage within the Suffolk police union, with President Louis Civello questioning the circumstances that led to Gallagher’s near-fatal injuries. Civello pointed to the alleged reckless behavior of the suspect, Cody Fisher, who was reportedly driving at speeds close to 100 mph, was under the influence of alcohol, did not possess a driver’s license, and had a prior record involving a road rage incident and weapons charges. Civello’s remarks reflect the frustration and concern among law enforcement officers regarding the dangers they face from individuals who disregard the law and endanger public safety. The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and measures to prevent individuals with a history of reckless driving from operating vehicles.
