Officer Andy Chan

By Jillian Pikora From Daily Voice

Funeral arrangements have been announced for Philadelphia Highway Patrol Officer Andy Chan, who died earlier this month six years after he was struck by a vehicle in the city’s Holmesburg neighborhood, officials said on Monday, Dec. 15.

Chan passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, according to the Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #5.

“His loss is felt deeply by all who knew him. We ask that you hold his wife, children, loved ones, friends, and his Brothers and Sisters in the Police Department in your prayers during this difficult time,” an FOP spokesperson wrote. “Andy died a hero and we will always remember and honor his sacrifice.”

A viewing will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 15 at Holy Redeemer Chinese Catholic Church at 915 Vine Street in Philadelphia. A second viewing is scheduled from 8:15 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 16 at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at 1723 Race Street.

A service will follow at 12 p.m. on Tuesday at the Cathedral Basilica.

Interment is set for Tuesday afternoon at West Laurel Hill Cemetery at 225 Belmont Avenue in Bala Cynwyd.

Officer Chan was on duty and riding his Highway Patrol motorcycle when he was struck by a minivan near Pennypack Park at Rhawn Street and Rowland Avenue on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019. The 79-year-old driver remained at the scene, and investigators believed the collision was accidental. Chan, who was 48 at the time, was placed in critical condition and underwent emergency surgery.

Despite wearing his helmet, he suffered a traumatic brain injury that left him in a coma for several months. His long recovery inspired years of charitable support, including annual block parties and multiple fundraisers for his family.

Chan joined the Philadelphia Police Department in the mid-1990s and became a beloved figure within the Highway Patrol. His injury sparked a massive outpouring of support from officers, law enforcement partners, and the public. Annual fundraising events and holiday block parties were held for his family as he continued long-term rehabilitation. 

Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation said Chan fought “harder than anyone could have imagined” over the past six years, adding that “there is, was, and will be no one like him.” The group said the 6th Annual Andy Chan Block Party will go on next Friday, Dec. 12, at Craft Hall, with proceeds benefiting the Chan family and other families of fallen or critically injured first responders.

Congressman Brendan Boyle also released a statement.

“Officer Andy Chan’s passing is heartbreaking news for Philadelphia,” Boyle wrote on X. “We owe an enduring debt to the first responders — and the families — who risk everything to keep our communities safe. My prayers are with his wife, his children, and all who loved him.”

Newtown Township Police said Chan worked closely with their chief and often collaborated with their motorcycle officers, calling him a dedicated professional whose impact “will never be forgotten.”

Before his injury, Chan spoke openly about his love for policing in a 2017 radio interview, recalling that he dreamed of becoming an officer after meeting police who visited his parents’ restaurant in Chinatown. “It’s just happy when you’re helping strangers out. And they look at you with a smile,” he said. “That’s the best thing about being a police officer.”

Officer Chan is survived by his wife and three children. His cause of death has not yet been released.

You can click here to learn more about charitable works in Officer Chan's honor by visiting Andy Chan Strong.