NYN Desk Report:
The New York City Police Department honored the life and legacy of Detective First Grade Steven D. McDonald during a dedication ceremony at the Police Academy in Flushing, Queens, on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Hosted by Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch, the event brought together city officials, NYPD members, clergy, McDonald’s family, and community representatives.
The ceremony opened with an introduction by Captain Jack Conway, followed by the national anthem performed by Detective Brianna Fernandez. Chief Chaplain Rev. Dr. A. R. Bernard delivered the invocation. Speakers included Mayor Zohran K. Mamdani, Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch, Chief Chaplain His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Patti Ann McDonald, and Captain Conor McDonald. The program also featured a sign unveiling, a blessing of the Police Academy, and closing remarks from Conway.
Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, CEO of Save the People USA (STPUSA), attended the ceremony on behalf of Queens. He said he was deeply honored to join the tribute and stand alongside Mayor Mamdani, Commissioner Tisch, New York State Attorney General Letitia James, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. Shahidullah described the gathering as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice shown by NYPD members and the strength of their families.
“As CEO of Save the People, I was proud to honor Detective Steven McDonald’s enduring legacy, remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and stand in support of New York’s Finest and their loved ones,” Shahidullah said.
The dedication recognized McDonald’s service after he joined the NYPD in 1984, following service in the United States Navy. While on patrol in Central Park on July 12, 1986, he was shot while responding to reports of robberies. He survived but was left quadriplegic and dependent on a ventilator.
McDonald later became known for his message of forgiveness and reconciliation. “I forgave him because I believe the only thing worse than receiving a bullet in my spine would have been to nurture revenge in my heart,” he said of the person responsible for the shooting. His message later reached communities in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, and Israel.
McDonald received the NYPD Medal of Honor in 1987 and later rose to Detective First Grade. He died in 2017 from complications related to his injuries. The dedication ensured his example of service, resilience, and forgiveness will remain part of the Police Academy’s history.
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