Oct 11, 2017 2 min read

Dedication of the Officer Scott L. Bashioum Memorial Bridge can now begin.

Gov. Tom Wolf Wednesday signed into law a bill to rename the span in honor of the slain Canonsburg police officer. State Rep. Brandon Neuman, who sponsored the measure, said the governor signed the legislation seven days after the state Senate unanimously approved it. The House had unanimously passed it beforehand.

Bashioum, 52, a U.S. Air Force veteran, was killed in the predawn hours of Nov. 10, 2016, after responding to a report of domestic violence at a home on Woodcrest Drive. He and his partner, Officer James Saieva were ambushed and shot. Saieva was wounded but survived.

Michael Cwiklinski, the shooter, also killed his pregnant wife, Dalia Sabae, 28, before shooting and killing himself.

The span is currently named Central Avenue Bridge and crosses Chartiers Creek.

Neuman, D-North Strabane Township, said in a prepared statement: “So many mixed emotions – including sorrow, regret and appreciation – come to mind with the enactment of the law, which takes effect in 60 days.”

“Everyone – from Canonsburg’s elected officials and first responders to area residents who knew Officer Bashioum simply as a friendly face they would pass in the streets – felt a deep loss and wanted to fill the void left by this tragedy. The bridge dedication will never end the sorrow or the loss, but it will show our love for the man, the officer and his sacrifice and service.”

House Bill 103 also honors Saieva; Canonsburg Officer Donald Cross, who was under fire while assisting the other officers; and Cecil Township Officer John Holt and Peters Township Sgt. Matt Collins for their bravery while responding. It also pays tribute to Sabae.

Congress is considering a separate measure to rename Canonsburg’s post office after Bashioum.