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Family and friends will gather today to honor Sergeant Nigel Barnett, a dedicated member of the New York State Police, at a funeral service in Poughkeepsie, New York. The service will be held at Faith Assembly of God on Golf Club Lane at 11 a.m. Barnett, a 49-year-old Poughkeepsie native, tragically died in a motorcycle accident on Tuesday (September 16) while traveling on the Taconic State Parkway in East Fishkill.
Barnett was a respected officer with 19 years of service in the New York State Police. He began his law enforcement career in 2002 and rose through the ranks to become a Station Commander at Troop K, SP Cortlandt. Known for his commitment to public safety, Barnett was honored as Supervisor of the Year for Troop F, Zone 3 in 2023.
The Poughkeepsie Journal reported that Barnett's death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from law enforcement agencies across New York. Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her "heartbreak" over the loss and ordered flags on state government buildings to be flown at half-staff today in his honor.
Beyond his professional achievements, Barnett was a beloved community member and family man. He is survived by his son, Nigel Barnett III, his partner Kristin Denu, and many other family members. His passions included motorcycling, hiking, and spending time with his family.
Memorial donations can be made to support his son's college education. Those wishing to contribute can send checks payable to Nigel Barnett III to McHoul Funeral Home in Hopewell Junction.