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Kankakee, IL Police Mark 30 Years Since Officer's Line-of-Duty Death
Kankakee, IL – The Kankakee Police Department is remembering fallen Officer Anthony Samfay on Saturday, October 17, marking 30 years since his line of duty death in 1996. A tribute shared by former co
By Lauren Beckett · 2026-10-17T15:43:38.341Z
Kankakee, IL – The Kankakee Police Department is remembering fallen Officer Anthony Samfay on Saturday, October 17, marking 30 years since his line of duty death in 1996. A tribute shared by former colleague Chris Kidwell reflects on Samfay's dedication to public service and the lasting impact he made on the Kankakee community.
According to a commemorative statement from the Kankakee Police Department, Samfay died October 17, 1996, while serving the community he loved. The department marked the anniversary with a message titled "30 Years. Never Forgotten."
October 17, 2026: Remembering Officer Anthony Samfay
Kidwell, who worked alongside Samfay, described him as a young, enthusiastic officer who took pride in his profession and genuinely wanted to make a difference.
The tribute emphasized that Samfay believed police work extended beyond arrests and enforcing laws.
He valued relationships with residents and made community engagement an important part of his service.
Samfay was involved with the Citizens Police Academy and worked to strengthen connections with Kankakee's growing Hispanic community.
A Legacy That Continues Three Decades Later
Kidwell recalled Samfay's pride in wearing the badge and the seriousness with which he approached his responsibilities.
Although his career ended prematurely, the department's message emphasized that his influence has remained with those who knew and worked alongside him.
The tribute also revisited words spoken by the late Mayor Green following Samfay's death in 1996.
"We can never replace Officer Anthony Samfay. We can only attempt to emulate his zest for life and his desire to make this a better place to live and work for all people."
Kankakee Police Continue to Honor His Memory
Thirty years after his death, Samfay remains part of the department's history and the community's remembrance of officers who died in service.
Kidwell concluded the anniversary tribute with a brief personal farewell:
"Rest easy, Tony."
The statement serves as a reminder of Samfay's commitment to the residents of Kankakee and the relationships he built throughout his career.