Community

45 Years Since the Deadly Brink’s Robbery in Rockland County

Published

3 weeks ago

October 20, 2026

October 20, 2026, marks 45 years since the deadly Brink’s armored truck robbery that forever changed Rockland County, claiming the lives of a security guard and two Nyack police officers.

On October 20, 1981, Rockland County became the scene of one of the most tragic and widely remembered crimes in its history. What began as an armed robbery at the Nanuet Mall ended in a deadly ambush in Nyack, leaving three men dead, others wounded, and a lasting impact on the community.

Forty-five years later, the anniversary serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the courage of the men who served and protected the public that day.

A Robbery That Turned Deadly

The events began at the Nanuet Mall, where armed members of a radical group robbed a Brink’s armored truck carrying approximately $1.6 million. During the robbery, Brink’s security guard Peter Paige was shot and killed. Guards Joseph Trombino and James Kelly were also wounded.

As the perpetrators attempted to flee, police established a roadblock near the entrance to the New York State Thruway in Central Nyack. The situation quickly escalated into a violent ambush when gunmen opened fire.

Nyack Police Sgt. Edward O’Grady and Officer Waverly “Chipper” Brown were fatally shot. Other officers were wounded in the attack, which shocked the community and drew national attention to Rockland County.

Remembering the Three Men Who Lost Their Lives

At the heart of this anniversary are three men whose lives were taken on that October day: Peter Paige, Edward O’Grady, and Waverly Brown.

Their names remain central to the annual remembrance, as family members, law enforcement officers, community leaders, and residents gather to honor their memories and recognize the sacrifices made in the line of duty.

The tragedy also left lasting pain for the families, colleagues, and friends of the victims. For those with personal connections to the men who died, the anniversary is more than a date in history; it is a reminder of lives cut short and loved ones who are still missed.

A Lasting Mark on Rockland County

The Brink’s robbery became a major criminal investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies. The case and its aftermath remained in the public eye for years, becoming a defining chapter in Rockland County’s history.

The memorial site on Mountainview Avenue, near the New York State Thruway entrance in Nyack, stands as a place of remembrance. The annual ceremony keeps the memory of the victims alive and provides an opportunity for the community to come together in reflection.

45 Years Later, Rockland County Remembers

On this 45th anniversary, Rockland County pauses to remember the tragic events of October 20, 1981, and honor Peter Paige, Sgt. Edward O’Grady, and Officer Waverly Brown.

Their stories remain an important part of the county’s history, reminding future generations of the risks faced by those who serve and protect their communities.

Forty-five years may have passed, but the loss is not forgotten. Rockland County continues to remember the three men whose lives were taken that day and honor their memory.

Community

Home Depot Offers Free Kids Workshops on the First Saturday of Every Month

Published

13 hours ago

November 9, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Families looking for fun, creative and educational activities for their children can check out the free Kids Workshops offered by The Home Depot on the first Saturday of every month.

The popular monthly workshops give children an opportunity to get hands-on experience building and creating projects while learning basic skills in a fun, family-friendly environment.

Designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving and confidence, the workshops allow young participants to work on different do-it-yourself projects and take pride in something they build themselves.

The Home Depot Kids Workshops are a great opportunity for parents and children to spend quality time together while introducing young builders to the world of home improvement and hands-on creativity.

Workshops take place on the first Saturday of each month, with project themes and activities changing throughout the year.

Registration is available online, and families are encouraged to sign up in advance to participate.

To learn more about upcoming projects, workshop schedules and registration, visit homedepot.com/c/kids.

Whether your child loves building, crafting or simply trying something new, these free monthly workshops offer a fun way to learn, create and build lasting memories!

Community

Why a Will May Not Control Everything in Your Estate

Published

5 days ago

November 5, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Having a will is an important part of estate planning, but it does not necessarily determine what happens to every asset after someone dies.

Many people assume that once a will is legally signed, it becomes the controlling document for distributing their entire estate. However, estate planning can be more complicated than that.

Certain financial accounts, property ownership arrangements, and legal designations may determine how specific assets are transferred, sometimes independently of the instructions outlined in a will.

Here are five important documents and arrangements that can affect an estate:

1. Beneficiary Designations

Life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and certain financial assets typically pass to the individuals named on their beneficiary designation forms. These designations may take precedence over instructions in a will.

2. Joint Ownership Agreements

How property or financial accounts are jointly owned can determine whether ownership automatically transfers to a surviving co-owner after death.

3. Transfer-on-Death (TOD) Designations and Deeds

Depending on state law and the type of asset, Transfer-on-Death arrangements can allow certain assets or real estate to pass directly to designated beneficiaries without going through probate.

4. Power of Attorney Documents

A power of attorney authorizes another person to make financial or legal decisions on someone’s behalf while they are alive and the document remains effective. Generally, this authority terminates upon the individual’s death.

5. Handwritten Notes and Personal Instructions

Personal letters, handwritten wishes, and informal notes may communicate someone’s intentions to family members. However, they generally do not replace legally valid estate-planning documents.

Estate Planning Requires More Than Just a Will

An effective estate plan involves ensuring that all relevant documents and arrangements work together.

This may include:

Beneficiary designation forms
Property deeds and ownership titles
Bank and financial account ownership records
Powers of attorney
Healthcare directives
Wills and, where appropriate, trusts

When these documents are inconsistent or outdated, families may encounter unexpected complications, disagreements, or delays during the estate administration process.

The Bottom Line

A will is an essential estate-planning tool, but it may not control every asset or decision. Reviewing beneficiary designations, property titles, account ownership, and other legal documents regularly can help reduce confusion and ensure that an estate plan reflects a person’s current wishes.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Estate-planning laws, probate requirements, and the effect of individual documents vary by state and asset type. Consult a qualified estate-planning attorney for guidance regarding your specific circumstances.