The NYPD is renaming the police academy in Queens to honor fallen detective Steven McDonald.
McDonald was shot and paralyzed from the neck down by a teenager who was stealing a bike in Central Park. He went on to forgive the teen and became an anti-violence advocate.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch reflected on his legacy at a ceremony Thursday.
“His example would remain part of the NYPD for generations to come. That meant bringing his story into the place where this department prepares each new generation for the responsibility ahead,” she said.
McDonald died in 2017, more than 30 years after he was shot. His son, Conor, is now an NYPD captain.