Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Will always be remembered for his devotion to duty and professionalism.

First Sergeant Thomas Webb, Retired
New York State Police

July 30, 2024

God rest his soul.

Sgt. Robert A. Henne
Jersey City PD/Ret.

March 26, 2024

Almost 40 years since Trooper Paul Ashburn untimely and tragic death, but we continue to honor Trooper Paul Ashburn because of the way he lived his life. Trooper Paul Ashburn will always be remembered.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police - Troop "D"

July 9, 2023

As Paul's 39th anniversary approaches we will once again acknowledge his gifts and positive attributes to his community, and to the people of New York State. Trooper Paul Ashburn will never be forgotten.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police - Troop "D"

July 18, 2022

I worked with Paul in the 70s at the south Colonies youth center on Central Avenue. He was a wonderful role model, always kind, thoughtful, fun loving, and helpful. He taught my husband and I to play tennis. He was very protective of everyone. He was so happy to marry his soulmate, and delighted to become a father. Being a public servant as a NYS trooper was a calling. I think of him often. At his funeral, the pastor asked us to think of Paul and every Trooper and their safety when we pass one on the side of the road. I just passed one on the Northway, obviously assisting a young family. God bless Paul's surviving family and friends. He will never be forgotten.

Anne Moscinski, co-worker and friend
Colleague

June 25, 2022

Never to be forgotten; RIP Paul.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police - Troop "D"

November 4, 2020

I came across a photo of Paul’s brother Bob with the Governor and Doc at our graduation. I shared the story with my family and we prayed for your family. RIP Paul.

Sr Investigator Allan Wright, retired
New York State Police

March 26, 2020

Trooper Paul Ashburn - Never to be forgotten. RIP

First Sergeant Thomas Webb, Retired, NYSP

January 4, 2020

Trooper Paul Ashburn will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.

First Sergeant Thomas Webb, Retired.
New York State Police

August 10, 2019

Rest in peace Trooper Ashburn.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

February 23, 2019

I was the second trooper on the scene when Paul was killed by the tractor trailer. Trooper Peggy Casey was the first. At the time it was believed that the truck driver was "dusting" Paul. This was a practice where the trucker would attempt to have the draft of his vehicle knock the Troopers hat off. The West coast mirror hit the back of Paul's head as he spoke to the female driver that he had given a verbal warning to about a traffic violation. Paul was commenting on an antique necklace the woman was wearing and she told me suddenly he was gone. He was a good man and brother. I think of him every time I pass that spot
southbound just south of the Berkshire spur. We were crying like babies when we picked him up and I will carry that day to my grave.

Investigator Joe Kochetta NYSP Retired
NYSP 17 years Troop Y Zone 1 & 2

April 16, 2018

RIP Paul, you will never ever be forgotten.

First Sergeant Thomas Webb (Retired)
New York State Police - Troop D

January 30, 2018

To the family of Paul Ashburn, be at peace in your hearts to know that Paul is in Heaven where he belongs. He gave his life to serve and protect others, and because of that God has set a place in Heaven for Paul, and for ALL the others LEOs who gave their life while serving and protecting others.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police

October 13, 2016

For some reason my daughter looked up her uncle she had never met. She brought back so many great memories that we shared he is deeply missed.

Daniel
Brother

May 8, 2015

Paul was always full of life with a smile on his face and love in his heart. I can not remember him saying a bad thing about anyone or complaining about life. I lost track of Paul after I moved out of the Albany area only to hear about his death years later from mutual friends. Paul I truely loved you like a brother and I miss you.

Raymmond J Huff
Childhood friend

August 12, 2011

I had known Paul from gradeschool through High School. Paul was a very kind and caring person. It did not surprise me when I had heard that he had become a State Trooper. This seemed to be a perfect fit for him. Paul and his family had expierenced some sad events while he was was growing up, but Paul never let this stop him from wanting to help others. I was saddened to hear of his passing. I feel very fortunate to have known Paul and his family. I have thought of him many times over the years. I have many happy memories of our school days. Paul has given the ultimate sacrafice and I am sorry that this is so late...but Thank You. You will always be remembered.
Your Friend,
Lynn Archambault Dimmer

Anonymous

February 15, 2011

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 27th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. I pray for solace for all those who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

July 26, 2010

I said a little prayer today for Trooper Ashburn and his family. He may be gone but never forgotten. He will always be a New York HERO.

Robyn Wilkes

July 20, 2009

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

December 20, 2007

Was it really that long ago? I can't even believe it. I remember Trooper Ashburn. He was a really decent guy. Coming from Coxsackie, reflecting on the loss of another trooper from our area this past week, I remembered Trooper Ashburn. He is sorely missed around here.

He is not forgotten!

May 1, 2007

Rest in peace brother. May God bless you.

Patrolman

September 4, 2005

This is a reflection of a class mate and friend remembered.
Paul and I were graduates from the same class. I remember him as a easy going, laid back kind of guy. Though we trained hard and played many jokes,(some at his dispence)he always took it in stride and with a quite smerk. It hurts to see he was the first to go from our class, but he is and always will be remebered and missed by all who knew him. Bravery & Peace to you my Brother. BJ Anderson

TRP Bob Anderson
New York State Police

August 29, 2003