Remembrance of Detective Stephen McDonald
This past Saturday, family and friends came together at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan to honor the memory of former New York City police detective Stephen McDonald, marking nine years since his passing.
Back in July 1986, McDonald, a 29-year-old patrolman, was shot three times in Central Park. The incident occurred when he was questioning a 15-year-old boy regarding a stolen bicycle. Tragically, one bullet damaged his spine, resulting in paralysis from the neck down and necessitating the use of a ventilator for the rest of his life. He ultimately died on January 10, 2017, at the age of 59 due to respiratory complications.
During the memorial, McDonald’s son, Lt. Connor McDonald of the NYPD, shared his father’s enduring spirit. “My father was a wonderful human being,” he reflected. “He faced evil and darkness, but, perhaps through the power of prayer and love, he managed to overcome it.”
Family members were present at the rally, including his wife, two children, and his mother Patricia, who was pregnant at the time of the shooting. Many of McDonald’s colleagues from the NYPD also attended, including Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Connor recalled that after the shooting, doctors predicted his father would only survive for three to five more years. “They didn’t think he could live that long given his injuries. But he truly believed that God’s grace gave him strength,” he said.
The young gunman who shot McDonald ended up being sentenced to nine years in prison but tragically died in a motorcycle accident just four days following his release on parole.
Throughout his life, McDonald was known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. “He could go anywhere, from Chinatown to 125th Street to Middle Village, and truly connect with anyone. He dedicated himself to bridging the gap between communities,” his son remembered. “His aim was to make New York City—and the world—a better place.”
Patrick Hendry, president of the Police Benevolent Association, echoed these sentiments at the memorial. “He gave us hope,” he said, affirming that McDonald’s life inspired others to remain grateful and contribute to their communities. “He was truly one of a kind.”
Scott Munro, president of the Detectives Endowment Association, shared how McDonald would visit precincts in his wheelchair, engaging with officers directly. “Whether you were new on the force or a seasoned detective, he met you with humility, honesty, and respect. His words resonated long after you spoke,” Munro noted.
