Wednesday, July 9, 2025 | St. Lawrence County, NY
POTSDAM —Flags on all New York State government buildings will be flown at half-staff Thursday, May 29, in honor of retired New York State Police First Sergeant Michael E. Snell. Snell died on …
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POTSDAM —Flags on all New York State government buildings will be flown at half-staff Thursday, May 29, in honor of retired New York State Police First Sergeant Michael E. Snell. Snell died on May 20, at the age of 56. His death was attributed to an illness resulting from his assignment at the World Trade Center site following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the flag directive in a statement released earlier this week. “First Sergeant Snell honorably served the people of New York State for 23 years, making the ultimate sacrifice for his fellow New Yorkers when it mattered the most,” the governor said. “On behalf of New York State, I extend my deepest gratitude for First Sergeant Snell’s contribution to the protection of our state, and send my heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Snell retired from the state police on May 24, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Tammy, and their four children: Wyatt, Ashton, Harrison, and Lawson.
In connection with the funeral services and a planned procession through the Village of Potsdam on May 29, the Potsdam Central School District will have early dismissal for all students. According to a message from district representative Jerry Griffin, the schedule change is due to anticipated road closures and traffic congestion associated with the funeral procession.
The procession is expected to involve several hundred vehicles and will pass through the village during the school district’s regular dismissal time. Griffin stated that the decision to dismiss early was made in consultation with the Potsdam Village Police Department and is intended to avoid transportation issues and ensure student safety.
The early release schedule is as follows:
Griffin acknowledged the inconvenience for families but emphasized the importance of the adjustment both for safety and in recognition of the community’s respect for First Sergeant Snell.
