An NYPD officer died after experiencing a medical episode at a department training facility in the Bronx, police reported.
Officials identified the man as Edgar Ordonez, 33, a probationary police officer.
According to the NYPD, Ordonez suffered some sort of medical distress around 11:25 a.m. while doing a training exercise at an outdoor range at Rodman’s Neck on Wednesday.
He was rushed to an area hospital in critical condition and died shortly after, officials said.
“Edgar Ordonez was a beacon of joy and positive energy for his fellow recruits. He had the drive and determination necessary to become a New York City police officer, and he was just days away from hitting the streets and making a difference in protecting our city,” said Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry in a statement.
Ordonez, who began training for the department in January, was set to graduate the academy on Monday, police reported.
The NYPD posted a video to X showing police recruits and officers lining the streets in New York City in a tribute to Ordonez while he was transferred.
“The sudden passing of Probationary Police Officer Edgar Ordonez has filled this department with sadness, and has left a void in our hearts. This afternoon, fellow recruits, officers, & members of the public lined up for his dignified transfer in a solemn tribute to this young officer,” the post’s caption read.
Rodman’s Neck is a facility used by police for weapons and tactical training, but Ordonez’s death did not involve gunfire, according to an NYPD spokesperson.
Authorities were investigating whether Ordonez may have suffered a heat stroke due to the high temperatures brought on by the city’s second heat wave of the summer, or a heart attack.
“Our hearts are heavy as we honor our fallen brother,” NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban said. “As we continue to grieve this terrible loss, we will keep Edgar’s family, friends, and fellow officers in our thoughts and prayers.”
