Musings: Honor McDonald, not 'Blood Alley'
NYPD Det. Steven McDonald, who was shot and paralyzed in the line of duty in 1986, died in 2017. Credit: George Tsourovakas
The NYPD Police Academy in College Point, Queens, is to be renamed on Thursday in honor of NYPD Det. Steven McDonald, who was shot and paralyzed in the line of duty in 1986 and died in 2017 of complications from his injuries. McDonald’s sacrifice and legacy are deserving of remembrance and respect.
I note that New York State earlier named a section of the Southern State Parkway in Nassau County, where McDonald resided, in his honor — the Detective Steven McDonald Memorial Highway. Unfortunately, part of this stretch of roadway is known as “Blood Alley” because of the serious accidents and fatalities there. The state should instead honor McDonald in a setting more consistent with his sacrifice.
Given the solemn nature of McDonald’s sacrifice, I believe it is important that memorials in his name reflect dignity, safety, and honor. The renaming of the police academy is a meaningful tribute, and I appreciate the care being taken to preserve his legacy.
— Vince Sgroi, Valley Stream
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