Michael Reidy

On a cold Friday afternoon in the University Heights section of the Bronx, the promising life of a young police officer was brought to a violent and tragic end. Michael “Mickey” Reidy, a 26-year-old, white male, had been a New York City Police Officer for only six months, proudly wearing badge number 31505 and serving the 41st Precinct. On January 23, 1987, he was off-duty, returning home after running errands, his life full of the potential that came with a new and honorable career. He was a beloved son to his mother, Nora, and a cherished brother to his five siblings.

At approximately 3:15 p.m., as he entered the vestibule of his apartment building on University Avenue, Officer Reidy was confronted by a man intent on robbing him. A struggle broke out in the stairway. Reidy, committed to his duty even when not in uniform, fought back and attempted to arrest his assailant. In the ensuing confrontation, the robber fired a .32 caliber handgun multiple times, striking the young officer in the chest and heart. Despite being mortally wounded, Officer Reidy managed to draw his own weapon and return fire, a final act of defiance, though he did not hit the suspect. The attacker fled, leaving the grievously injured officer behind.

Paramedics rushed Michael Reidy to North Central Bronx Hospital. He was taken into surgery, but the damage was too severe. About an hour after the attack, he succumbed to his injuries, his life of service cut heartbreakingly short. The news devastated his family and sent a shockwave of grief through the New York City Police Department, which had lost one of its newest members.

The NYPD investigation was swift and determined. Just three days later, on January 26, 1987, detectives arrested a suspect. The man was identified as 24-year-old Angel Maldonado. According to case documents, Maldonado admitted that he had followed Officer Reidy from a check-cashing establishment with the intent to rob him, pointing a gun at him and demanding money before shooting him. Maldonado was indicted on charges that included two counts of second-degree murder (intentional and felony murder), attempted robbery, and criminal possession of a weapon.

On December 19, 1987, a jury found Angel Maldonado guilty of second-degree murder, attempted robbery in the first degree, and escape in the first degree. He was sentenced on January 13, 1988, to a term of 25 years to life in prison for the murder, with a concurrent sentence for the robbery and a consecutive sentence for the escape charge. For more than three decades, Maldonado remained incarcerated. However, on June 9, 2021, after serving 34 years, he was granted parole and released from prison.

The memory of Officer Michael Reidy has not faded. His sacrifice and heroism are permanently honored in the Bronx community he served. On July 25, 2003, in a lasting tribute, the city of New York officially renamed the southwest corner of Fordham Road and University Avenue, near the site of his death, as Police Officer Michael Reidy Pathway. The sign stands as a constant reminder of the young officer who gave his life while protecting the city he loved. Though his time with the NYPD was brief, his bravery and commitment to his oath left a permanent mark on all who knew him and on the department he served. The case is considered closed following the conviction and subsequent parole of his killer.