Beloved MLB pitcher who retired to become NYC-area police officer dies in crash on way to 9/11 memorial at 37, tributes pour in

Former Major League Baseball player Anthony Varvaro died in a car crash on his way to a 9/11 memorial ceremony in New York City on Sunday. He is survived by his wife and four children.

Varvaro played baseball at St. John’s University in New York City before going pro. He played in the MLB between 2010 and 2015. He was a relief pitcher with the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Seattle Mariners during his baseball career.

Varvaro retired in 2016 to become a police officer in the New York City area.

Varvaro, 37, was an officer for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

On Sunday, Varvaro was killed in a car crash while driving on his way to work at the Sept. 11 memorial ceremony in Manhattan, according to the Associated Press. He was reportedly killed by a wrong-way driver.

Tributes poured in to honor the fallen officer and former MLB pitcher.

The Atlanta Braves said, "We are deeply saddened on the passing of former Braves pitcher Anthony Varvaro. Anthony, 37, played parts of six seasons in the majors, including four with Atlanta. He voluntarily retired from MLB in 2016 to become a Port Authority police officer."

The Port Authority Police Benevolent Association said in statement, "RIP PAPD PO Anthony Varvaro, EOW 9/11/22. PO Varvaro was killed by a wrong-way driver while reporting to a PAPD 9/11 WTC detail. He served the PAPD 6 years, was 37 & survived by his wife & 4 children. Anthony, rest in the Lord's eternal embrace. Always Honored, Never Forgotten

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp urged, "Heartbreaking. Please join our family and Braves fans across the country in praying for Anthony Varvaro’s loved ones."

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said, "Heartbroken by the tragic passing of Port Authority Police Officer Anthony Varvaro. A former @MLB player, Officer Varvaro was an invaluable leader at the PA as an Academy Instructor. He was a husband and father of four, and we send our condolences to his family during this time."

The Red Sox wrote on Twitter, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Red Sox pitcher Anthony Varvaro. We send our sincerest condolences to the Varvaro family."

The New Jersey State Police said, "Tonight, our thoughts and prayers are with the Port Authority Police Department and the family and friends of Police Officer Anthony Varvaro, who was killed in a motor vehicle crash earlier today as he was reporting for a detail assignment at the World Trade Center 9/11 Ceremony."

Braves reporter David O'Brien tweeted, "Anthony Varvaro was a terrific guy. Loved by teammates and everyone else who knew him. R.I.P."

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