Colonel William J. DeBlock, Jr., 68, died on October 20, 2020, as a result of cancer stemming from his assignment to the World Trade Center site following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. 

Following the events of 9/11, Colonel DeBlock was assigned to New York City as part of the New York State Police Detail to aid with the search and recovery efforts. 

Colonel DeBlock entered the State Police on February 21, 1977. He retired on June 28, 2007, having served for 30 years.

Colonel DeBlock is survived by his wife and four children.