Terrance McAvoy, a 30-year-old male, passed away on July 27, 2019, in his residence in the New Dorp section of Staten Island, New York. Born and raised in Staten Island before moving to Lacey Township, N.J., he was a graduate of Monsignor Donovan High School and later earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from St. John's University in 2011.
An accomplished athlete in his youth, he was known for his involvement in football, wrestling, and powerlifting.
McAvoy joined the New York City Police Department in 2011 and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in June of 2018, serving in Brooklyn. He was described by those who knew him as a dedicated officer and a friend to many. His death was the seventh suicide of an NYPD officer in 2019, a trend that raised concerns within the department about mental health resources available to officers.
Authorities reported that McAvoy died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and a gun was found near his body. Due to the determination that his death was a suicide, there were no arrests made or suspects sought in connection with the incident. The Staten Island District Attorney expressed condolences to McAvoy's family and the NYPD, highlighting the tragedy of his untimely death. In the wake of this and other similar incidents, the NYPD emphasized the importance of mental health counseling and encouraged officers to seek support.
