BUFFALO, N.Y. - Family and friends of an NFTA police officer, who lost his life last year, came together Sunday at a benefit in his honor.

Michael Insalaco died last November, just days after he crashed his car into a utility pole in Hamburg. He was 42-years-old.

The fundraiser at Statler City Sunday was to remember Insalaco's life and his service and dedication to the NFTA police department.

Insalaco was an 18-year veteran of the department and a beloved family man.

"He was a very kind and gracious guy who was always willing to help other people,” said Jim Shaw, Insalaco's father-in-law. “Police officers are like the military in the sense that they're very tight, very tightly bound to each other emotionally and spiritually."

Proceeds from the benefit go toward the educational needs for Insalaco's three sons, ages 12, nine and six. He is also survived by his wife, Kelly.