Funeral held for fallen L.I. police officer

LONG ISLAND (WABC) -- An emotional day on Long Island as the funeral for the officer shot and killed by friendly fire last weekend was held.

A flag flies at half staff as law enforcement from all across Long Island and New York State arrived for the funeral of Nassau County police officer Gefforey Breitkopf.

Last Saturday the 40-year-old Breitkopf was wearing plainclothes, and carrying a rifle pointed down when he walked into a scene that would ultimately cost him his life.

Breitkopf was accidentally shot by an MTA police officer in a case of mistaken identity.

After police had shot and killed 21-year-old Anthony DiGeronimo, a self described anarchist, his colleagues are said to be devastated.

Today Breitkopf was remembered as a devoted husband and father of two young boys and his dedication to the community.

The ceremony was held at St. Margaret of Scotland Roman Catholic Church, followed by a burial at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Coram.

Brietkopf, a 12-year veteran of the force, was assigned to the elite special operations bureau.

He was a volunteer firefighter as well.

Mourners attended a tearful wake for him Wednesday, at the Selden firehouse where he volunteered.

Earlier Friday, thousands honored fallen NYPD officer Alain Schberger. Schaberger was killed hours after Breitkopf after responding to a domestic call. His funeral was also held on Long Island.

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