"Trooper Sean" was born Sept. 10, 1974, in West Islip, NY. He attended Pawling High School in Pawling, NY, before moving to Washington. He attended both Olympic College and the University of Phoenix, where he earned an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice.
Sean served in the United States Navy for over four years. During that time he earned numerous awards and commendations, and participated in the liberation of Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm.
Sean began his career with the Washington State Patrol as a trooper cadet on July 15, 1998. He graduated with the 82nd Trooper Basic Training Class on March 1, 1999, and was assigned to Marysville. On May 1, 2012, he was assigned as a motorcycle officer, remaining in Marysville.
Sean was best known for his sense of humor, employing it with good judgment and knowing when to be serious. Sean also developed a reputation for being able to work effectively with even the most difficult persons that police can encounter. He understood that officers frequently deal with “good people on their bad days,” and was a role model for his colleagues in de-escalating those situations.
On behalf of the O’Connell family, Sean’s brother Fran stated, “We plan to honor Sean’s memory by trying to be more like him. We will answer a calling, love our friends and family, and find humor in the everyday events of life.”
Sean is survived by his wife Alissa, their two children, his parents, siblings, and many extended family members.
Source: Washington State Patrol Fallen Officers website
