Family of Uxbridge officer killed in line of duty gets surprise gift of Super Bowl tickets from Robert Kraft

New England Patriots

“These are happy tears,” said Shannon LaPorta.

Shannon and Matthew LaPorta thought they were at Gillette Stadium for a tour. But after they arrived, Robert Kraft walked in with a surprise gift: tickets to see the Patriots play in Super Bowl LX.

Shannon and Matthew are the wife and son of Stephen A. LaPorta, an Uxbridge police officer who was killed in the line of duty earlier this month while responding to a multi-vehicle crash. He was helping a motorist on Route 146 when he was hit by a tractor-trailer and pronounced dead at the scene. He was 43.

According to an obituary posted by Alexander Thomas and Sons Funeral Homes, Stephen dedicated his life to public safety and completed a lifelong dream when he was sworn in as an officer.

“Outside of his career, Stephen was known as a kind, selfless, and compassionate person who always put others before himself,” the obituary reads. “Whether with his family, friends, or colleagues, he was someone people could rely on, always willing to lend a hand, offer support, or simply be there when needed. He found great joy in spending time with his loved ones and creating lasting memories.”

He was also a an avid fan of the Red Sox, Patriots, and Bruins, along with the musician Kenny Chesney.

“These passions reflected Stephen’s warm spirit and appreciation for life beyond his service,” the obituary reads.

In a video posted to the Patriots’ X account, Kraft walked in and told Shannon and Matthew that they would be heading to Santa Clara.

“We wanted to present you with a special surprise,” Kraft said. “We’re sending you there in dad’s honor.”

Shannon and Matthew looked at each other while Shannon wiped away a tear.

“These are happy tears,” she said.

Kraft shook both of their hands and told them it was an honor to meet them. He hopes that they’ll cheer the Patriots on against the Seahawks.

“This is like the best moment of my life, like today,” Shannon said. “I’m truly blessed and grateful for all the outpour and support in this community and around.”

Matthew pumped his fist and said, “Go Pats.”

The Patriots will play the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on Feb. 8. It is their first Super Bowl appearance since winning Super Bowl LIII at the conclusion of the 2018 season.

Khari A. Thompson

Sports Reporter

Khari Thompson covers professional sports for Boston.com. Before joining the team in 2022, Khari covered college football for The Clarion Ledger in Jackson, Miss.