Honoring Nicole, Wife of Officer Andrew Tedesco

Thursday afternoon, Orlando Sanford Airport Police Officer Andrew Tedesco’s wife, Nicole, and their ten-year-old daughter, Ava, were caught in a rainstorm and fell victim to a lightning strike. Tragically, Nicole did not survive the encounter. Ava was transported to Arnold Palmer Hospital and is in good physical condition.

Andy joined the Sanford Airport Authority Police Department in April of 2021, bringing over 20 years of law enforcement experience to its ranks. Although his career has been dedicated to public services, the true center of Andy’s world is his family. He describes Nicole as a wonderful wife, loving mother, and faithful friend whose absence will be felt by many. Andy loves riding go-karts with Ava and her eight-year-old sister, Gia. Nicole filmed and edited videos of the girls for their YouTube channel, “Racing Sisters Ava and Gia.” https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGwne4VL4vlhBAhLcR43qGg

Needless to say, we are heartbroken for him. Andy’s co-workers at the Airport have circled the wagons to ensure Andy has all the support he needs as he focuses on being there for Ava and Gia. Additionally, Sheriff Dennis Lemma and others in the Seminole County law enforcement community have been quick and generous in their resources and sympathy.

I know that many of you will ask how you can help – first and foremost, please keep Andy and his family in your thoughts and prayers. SAA Management has set up this Go Fund Me Account in order to assist Andy with the challenges he will face in both the near and long term.

Update: The Sanford Airport Authority is deeply moved by the community response for Officer Tedesco and his family. Your comments and deeds have been heartwarming. Know your generosity will go a long way in easing some of the challenges Officer Tedesco and his young family are and will be experiencing. Because the outpouring of support has been so overwhelming, we have expanded the fundraising goal so as to ensure those who wish to contribute remain able to do so. We’re forever appreciative for the way our local and even national friends have responded.