FDNY EMS worker stabbed to death in Queens: ‘barbaric’ attack
Astoria, Queens (WPIX) – An FDNY EMS member was fatally stabbed Thursday in a “barbaric” and “unprovoked attack” while on duty in New York City, FDNY acting commissioner Laura Cabana said.
EMS Lt. Alison Russo-Elling, a 24-year FDNY veteran, was stabbed around 2:20 p.m. in Astoria’s Queens neighborhood, according to FDNY and NYPD officials. Russo-Elling was taken to hospital in critical condition, but she died from her injuries, officials said.
Russo-Elling, 61, was outside Station 49 in Astoria when he met a 34-year-old man on the corner of the station. Steinway Street and 20th Avenue. The man “viciously attacked” Russo Elling with a knife and stabbed her multiple times without her provocation, Chief James Essig said.
Police said the suspect fled to his home on 41st Street and barricaded himself inside. NYPD negotiators were able to force the suspect to surrender and he was taken into custody.
Authorities later identified the suspect as 34-year-old Peter Zysopoulos. Authorities say he has been charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
“Our hearts go out to her family, her colleagues and New York City. We have lost one of our heroes,” said Mayor Eric Adams. “Her perpetrator will be arrested and held accountable for his actions.”
According to FDNY Commissioner Kavanagh, in addition to serving the agency for nearly 25 years, Russo-Elling was a first responder to the 9/11 World Trade Center and has been cited many times for her bravery. .
“She was absolutely loved for this job,” said Kavanagh. “Members of the EMS are dedicated solely to helping and saving the lives of other people. It is the grief and anger of
Russo-Elling was a Long Island resident and mother, according to FDNY.
She is the FDNY’s 1,158th member to die in line of duty and the second EMS member to die in line of duty in the past five years, officials said.
Governor Kathy Hochul has released a statement regarding the death of Russo Elling.
“New York’s first responders deserve to go home safely at the end of their shift. Our hearts go out to the family of the EMS Lieutenant who died during treatment today and all of @FDNY as they support this tragic event. I mourn the loss.
Hochul has ordered flags on state buildings to be flown at half mast from Friday in honor of Russo-Elling.
State Senator Mike Janaris, who represents multiple Queens boroughs, including Astoria, also shared his condolences at the passing of Russo Elling.
“A horrific loss to the entire family of Astoria and New York,” Janaris said on Twitter. May we be comforted by the love and strength of our community.”
Russo-Elling’s daughter, Danielle Fuoco, has asked the public to keep her mother in prayer and to remember her as “a hero of the past.” She and her First Vice Principal Katie Donegan remembered Russo Elling as someone who truly loved her job.
“EMS and service to others have been her greatest love,” Donegan told WPIX. He was a truly dedicated and steadfast donor.”
https://www.mystateline.com/news/fdny-ems-worker-9-11-first-responder-viciously-stabbed-to-death-in-nyc/ FDNY EMS worker stabbed to death in Queens: ‘barbaric’ attack