Senator Tony Hwang Statement on the Passing of Dr. Henry C. Lee

HARTFORD, CT — State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield) issued the following statement regarding the passing of Dr. Henry C. Lee:

“I am devastated and deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Henry C. Lee – a treasured friend, mentor, and profound inspiration in my life.

Dr. Lee was more than a world-renowned forensic scientist. To me, he was a source of personal encouragement, wise guidance, and unwavering support. I will always be grateful for the kindness, care, and generosity he showed me, and for the confidence he instilled through his mentorship and friendship.

As a proud fellow Chinese-American who, like me, immigrated from Taiwan, Dr. Lee represented a deeply meaningful example of what is possible through perseverance, character, resilience, and grace. He overcame tremendous challenges and odds to become a true pioneer in forensic science, and in doing so, inspired generations of scientists, public servants, and aspiring leaders.

His extraordinary contributions to Connecticut, to the cause of justice, and to the global scientific community have left an indelible and lasting mark. Through his distinguished leadership as Connecticut’s Chief Criminalist and as Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety and State Police, Dr. Lee exemplified brilliance, humility, and an unwavering commitment to truth and justice.

His visionary work in establishing groundbreaking research and educational centers at our universities ensured that Connecticut would remain at the forefront of forensic science while cultivating the next generation of innovators in this critical field.

Dr. Henry C. Lee’s legacy will live on not only through his historic achievements, but through the countless lives he touched with his wisdom, compassion, and example. I will forever respect and cherish his friendship, his mentorship, and the caring support he extended to me throughout my journey.

I offer my sincerest condolences to his wife and family. May they find comfort in knowing that his life’s work, his extraordinary spirit, and his enduring influence will continue to inspire all of us for generations to come.”