Nicholas James Budney, a 36-year-old white male, died on January 27, 2018, in Newburgh, New York. His death was the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Budney, a decorated NYPD detective, was found deceased on the outdoor patio of Billy Joe's Ribworks, a popular waterfront restaurant. An employee of the establishment discovered his body on the morning of Sunday, January 28, 2018.
Prior to his death, Budney had been involved in a minor car accident and was briefly hospitalized.
He reportedly checked himself out of the hospital and then went to the bar where the incident occurred. The City of Newburgh police investigated the death and officially ruled it a suicide. There were no suspects or arrests in connection with his death.
At the time of his passing, Budney was a resident of Rock Tavern and had served with the NYPD for 13 years, where he was assigned to the Emergency Service Unit in the Bronx. He had been recognized as 'Cop of the Year' four times. He was also an active member of the North Highlands Fire Department and had been named 'Fireman of the Year.' He was a graduate of Haldane High School and had attended SUNY Plattsburgh and John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Nicholas Budney is survived by his wife, parents, and siblings.
