In the University Heights section of the Bronx, on a Friday afternoon, January 23, 1987, the life of 26-year-old Police Officer Michael 'Mickey' Reidy was tragically cut short. An off-duty officer with the New York City Police Department for a mere six months, Reidy was returning home after running errands. At approximately 3:15 p.m., as he entered the vestibule of his apartment building on University Avenue, he was confronted by a man attempting to rob him.
A struggle ensued between Reidy and his assailant. Despite his efforts to defend himself and make an arrest, Reidy was shot multiple times, with one bullet striking him in the chest and heart. Though mortally wounded, he managed to draw his own weapon and return fire, but he did not hit the suspect. The attacker fled the scene, leaving the young officer gravely injured. Michael Reidy was rushed to North Central Bronx Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries about an hour later during surgery. The incident left his mother, Nora, and his five siblings devastated.
The investigation into the murder of Officer Reidy moved swiftly. Three days after the fatal shooting, on January 26, 1987, a suspect was apprehended by the New York City Police Department. The man, identified as 24-year-old Angel Maldonado, was subsequently charged with the murder and attempted robbery of Michael Reidy.
Angel Maldonado was convicted for the murder of Officer Reidy and was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. He served his time in the correctional system for many years. However, on June 9, 2021, Angel Maldonado was granted parole and released from prison. In a lasting tribute to the fallen officer, on July 25, 2003, the southwest corner of Fordham Road and University Avenue, near the location of his death, was officially renamed Police Officer Michael Reidy Pathway in his honor, a permanent reminder of his service and sacrifice.
