NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- The Suffolk County Police Department is mourning the loss of a Lieutenant who died from COVID-19 on Wednesday.
Lt. Robert Van Zeyl, 60, is the first active-duty sworn member of the Suffolk County Police Department due to the COVID-19 virus, officials said.
"It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of an exceptional member of our law enforcement family, Lieutenant Robert Van Zeyl," Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said.
"Lt. Van Zeyl's more than three decades of exemplary service are a testament to his commitment to public service, and even in the midst of a global pandemic, he was on the frontlines every day helping residents in need. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Van Zeyl family during this difficult time," he added.
Van Zeyl tested positive for COVID-19 on January 3 and was hospitalized a week later.
"Lt. Van Zeyl served Suffolk County residents with distinction for nearly 36 years and his legacy will continue with the members of this department. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family," Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart said.
Van Zeyl will be honored with a line of duty funeral, arrangements of which are pending.
Van Zeyl joined the Suffolk County Police Department in February 1985 and served in the Fifth Precinct upon graduation from the academy. Van Zeyl was promoted to Sergeant in 1994 and then Lieutenant in 2003.
He served as the Commanding Officer of the Applicant Investigation Section and the Administrative Services Bureau before transferring to the Second Precinct in 2015 where he worked until his death.
"It is truly heartbreaking to lose a member of our department, doubly so personally given the fact that I have known Bob for my entire career," Suffolk County Police Chief of Department Stuart Cameron said. "Thirty-six years ago, we were sworn in together and became Suffolk County Police officers; his entire adult life was dedicated to public safety. Bob's passing exemplifies the multifaceted dangers that members of our department face every day to keep the residents of our county safe. Our department grieves his loss along with his family."
Van Zeyl is survived by his ex-wife Christine Zubrinic, a daughter, Hailey, and son, Tyler, both 14.
