A probationary NYPD officer died Wednesday after suffering an apparent medical episode at a training facility in the Bronx, officials said.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban identified the officer as Edgar Ordonez.
Ordonez, 32, lost consciousness at 11:30 a.m. while at Rodman's Neck, an operations base used by police for weapons and tactical training, an NYPD spokesperson said. He was pronounced dead shortly after at a nearby hospital.
Police said Ordonez had passed all the requirements to become an officer. Caban posted on social media saying he was just days away from graduation.
Our hearts are heavy as we honor our fallen brother, Probationary Police Officer Edgar Ordonez. We tragically lost Edgar earlier today, just a few days before he was set to graduate and join his fellow Finest protecting New York City.
— Edward A. Caban (@NYPDPC) July 10, 2024
As we continue to grieve this terrible… pic.twitter.com/llqTh3E7Ko
The death did not involve gunfire, the spokesperson said. Authorities were investigating whether the officer may have suffered heat stroke or a heart attack.
The Police Benevolent Association released a statement saying Ordonez will be missed.
"Our brother Police Officer 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. From the moment a police officer is sworn into the Police Academy, they become part of our Blue Family. Now we must focus on being there for his family as they deal with this unimaginable loss," PBA president Patrick Hendry said.