Kevin M. Preiss, a 53-year-old male from Hicksville, New York, and a proud member of the New York City Police Department, died tragically on June 26, 2019. His death was the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in Hicksville, located in Nassau County on Long Island. At the time of his death, Preiss was a 24-year veteran of the force and was just three days away from the 25th anniversary of his service with the NYPD.
A loving husband and father to three children, Preiss was a respected officer assigned to the 50th Precinct in the Bronx. He was known for his kindness and dedication to helping others. In one instance in 2016, he and his partner were credited with saving the life of a college security guard who had suffered a heart attack. He expressed that the part of the job he enjoyed most was assisting those in need. Neighbors recalled seeing him on his porch shortly before his death and were shocked by the tragic turn of events.
His passing was reported as the fourth suicide of an NYPD officer in that month alone, prompting the police commissioner to declare a mental health crisis within the department. In the wake of this and other similar incidents, the NYPD encouraged its members to seek help if they were struggling with their mental health. Kevin Preiss was remembered by colleagues and community members as a true gentleman who was kind, warm, and very welcoming.
