Mattel donates Hot Wheels toys to New York Sheriff's Office to help carry on fallen deputy's legacy

By Joanna Putman
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GENESEE COUNTY, NY — Legacy of the Dead Genesee County Sheriff's Sergeant Thomas Sanfratellowho died in the line of duty earlier this year, is being continued thanks to a heartfelt gesture involving Hot Wheels toy cars, WKBW reported.

Deputy Rachel Diehl, niece of Sergeant Sanfratello, noted her uncle's deep connection to the community and his passion for collecting Hot Wheels, according to the report. He was known for sharing his diecast cars with children visiting the sheriff's office.

“He was not only my uncle, but also my best friend, my partner,” Diehl said. “He was the kid who never grew up.”

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To honor Sanfratello, Mattel, Inc., the maker of Hot Wheels, donated four cases of the toy cars to the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, according to the report. The donation amounts to 288 Hot Wheels cars.

The donated Hot Wheels cars are now being distributed to various community agencies throughout Genesee County, according to the report. The goal is to continue Sergeant Sanfratello's legacy by bringing joy to children in his name.

“It feels so good because we don’t want it to be forgotten,” Diehl said. “He will always be with us in one way or another, even if it’s just in a Hot Wheels car.”