SUNRISE, FLA. (WSVN) - The motorcycle rider who was killed in a crash in Sunrise was an off-duty Broward Sheriff’s Office deputy, officials with the Broward Deputy Sheriffs Association said.

The Broward Deputy Sheriffs Association issued a statement Thursday afternoon identifying the victim as 27-year-old BSO Deputy Anthony Zahorovsky.

His cousin, Andres Muneton, spoke with 7News hours later.

“We’re devastated, and he was amazing, as a father. We don’t believe this,” he said.

Zahorovsky had arguably one of the most dangerous jobs — law enforcement — but he lost his life on a day off.

Sunrise Police units responded to the scene of the crash on the intersection of North Pine Island Road and Springtree Lakes Drive.

According to investigators, Zahorovsky was heading southbound on North Pine Island Road when he collided with an SUV that was turning westbound onto Springtree Lakes Drive, at around 12:20 p.m.

Passerby Odalis Polanco described the disturbing moment of impact.

“The [Toyota] RAV4 was making a left turn, and then the motorcycle was coming south and hit the back of the SUV,” he said. “The body flew, probably like 30 feet away from the crash.”

Zahorovsky was pronounced dead at the scene.

Muneton told 7News that his cousin was a U.S. Army veteran, adding he was married with a 2-year-old boy, and he and his wife were expecting their second child.

Zahorovsky joined BSO in 2020. Sgt. Greg LaCerra spoke with 7News over the phone.

“Tony was very much well-liked,” he said. “You always have one or two guys, deputies who you can count on to make that phone call and say, ‘Take care of this for me,’ and he was one of those guys. I just can’t wrap my head around it, I really don’t.”

A statement from the Broward Deputy Sheriffs Association reads in part:

“Anthony’s loss is deeply felt by all of us. As a colleague, friend, and family member, he touched many lives. During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences, thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support to Anthony’s family. May they find strength in the memories of Anthony’s life and the positive impact he had on those around him.”

The Broward Deputy Sheriffs Association, IUPA Local 6020

LaCerra said Zahorovsky was interested in helping and supporting other deputies as they deal with the stresses of the job. On Thursday, while enjoying a holiday off, he was taken away.

“I preach this to people that I work with: enjoy life and enjoy your family, because you just don’t know,” said LaCerra. “He’s going to have two kids, and they’re not going to know who their dad was other than pictures, and it’s just sad.”

“He was an amazing dad, and he loved what he was doing, and it just was a simple thing, and he lost his life,” said Muneton.

Police said the two people inside the SUV involved were taken to the hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

As of late Thursday night, there’s no word as to whether anyone will be cited or charged and the crash remains under investigation.

On Friday morning, a flag was raised outside of the Broward Sheriff’s Office Headquarters in honor of Zahorovsky.

Details about funeral arrangements have not been released.

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