The Rev. William Dolan wants you to know what the community lost when Michael Jensen, a Syracuse police officer and a Le Moyne graduate, was shot to death on April 14 in Salina, while attempting to apprehend a man suspected of fleeing police at what began as a traffic stop. Jensen and Michael Hoosock, an Onondaga County Sheriff’s Lieutenant who attended Le Moyne for a year, were both killed by the assailant, police said. According to media reports, the alleged attacker – Christopher Murphy, 33 – died when law enforcement officers returned fire.
In a recent interview, Dolan – who taught World Civilization at Le Moyne, before retiring – told The Dolphin that Jensen, a native of Rome, will be remembered for his impact on the community, his infectious smile, and his selflessness. Jensen’s commitment to give back to the community he so dearly cared about didn’t stop at becoming a police officer, as before his time in law enforcement he offered his free time to serving others.
“As a member of the Biochem club and on his own, he served in our homelessness outreach, Saturday, Rescue Mission diner serving,” said Dolan, which he said demonstrates another piece of how much Jensen cared about those around him.
Jensen’s dedication to service and compassion was further proven through his time on the Le Moyne hockey team. Jenson’s leadership and positive attitude helped leave a lasting impact on past teammates. Head coach of the ice hockey team, Ryan Monahan, played with Jensen from 2015 through 2018. Jensen had been involved with the club post-graduation, participating in the annual alumni game.
“Mike was a true leader and a phenomenal teammate. And on top of all that he was a great player too. He had just under 150 points in his time with Le Moyne, and every time he stepped on the ice he was phenomenal with the puck,” remembers Monahan.
Jensen had a lasting effect on people and the clubs he participated in. “Whenever you saw Jensen, you saw a grin from ear to ear that brightened your day. He was never not smiling; that was his staple” said Monahan.
“If there were a word to describe him I would say ‘Goodness’, and now I would add to it ‘Greatness’, and am reminded of the words of Jesus, (John 13:15) ‘There is no greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friend,’” said Dolan.
