Photo: Manuel Breva Colmeiro / Moment / Getty Images
Onondaga County has honored Lieutenant Michael "Hooch" Hoosock, a sheriff's deputy who was killed in the line of duty, by dedicating the county's Emergency Operations Center in his name. The dedication ceremony took place on Sunday (November 30) at the building located on Electronics Parkway, now officially named the Lieutenant Michael Hoosock Emergency Management Center.
Hoosock, who was 37 years old, died during a standoff in Salina in April 2024, alongside Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen. Both officers have been memorialized through various dedications, including highways and public monuments. The ceremony was attended by Hoosock's family, county officials, and numerous first responders.
Emergency Management Commissioner Dan Wears described Hoosock as "more than a dedicated officer," noting his service as a deputy, firefighter, and paramedic. Wears said, "His service tied all disciplines of public safety together." County Executive Ryan McMahon echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Hoosock's loyalty and commitment to his community.
Sheriff Toby Shelley highlighted Hoosock's ability to wear "a lot of hats" in his service roles, making the building's renaming a fitting tribute. Shelley remarked, "Having this building represent all three emergency services makes this a fitting tribute."
The ceremony concluded with Hoosock's family unveiling the new sign, marking the building as a lasting symbol of his courage and dedication. The center will continue to serve as a hub for training and coordination among firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement, carrying on Hoosock's legacy.