An NYPD detective who was stabbed repeatedly during an attempted robbery in the Bronx last week has been discharged from the hospital, officials said.
Detective Jose Mercedes was escorted out of Jacobi Medical Center in Morris Park on Monday. After being wheeled outside, he rose from his chair and walked toward a crowd of applauding police officers.
“In another remarkable display of strength and determination, Detective Mercedes stood from his wheelchair today and walked out of Jacobi Medical Center on his own,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch wrote on X. “Hundreds of NYPD members were there to welcome and cheer on their brother.”
Detective Jose Mercedes was taken outside Jacobi Medical Center in Morris Park on Monday and then stood before a cheering group of officers. (NYPD)
“The entire department remains firmly behind Detective Mercedes as he continues to heal,” Tisch added. “The best detectives in the world will pursue those responsible for this attack without relent.”
Mercedes was off duty Friday afternoon when two men riding an e-bike allegedly tried to steal his gold chain as he removed items from the trunk of his vehicle in the Norwood section of the Bronx, according to authorities.
Police said the two suspects have not yet been captured. (NYPD)
FIND OUT MORE: Ben Shephard Arrest News: Is Television Presenter Arrested? – NewsFinale
The detective fought back, but the confrontation turned violent. He was stabbed and slashed seven times before the suspects escaped. Authorities said the struggle began during the attempted theft of his chain.
Despite his injuries, Mercedes ran after the men for roughly two blocks. He later collapsed near East 206th Street and Rochambeau Avenue.
“Even after suffering serious injuries, Detective Mercedes pursued his attackers on foot,” Tisch said.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani visited Mercedes at the hospital soon after the stabbing. (WNYW)
Tisch and Mayor Zohran Mamdani later went to Jacobi Medical Center to see the wounded detective and his family.
“I visited the detective and his family at Jacobi Hospital alongside Police Commissioner Tisch,” Mamdani said Friday. “I’m hoping he makes a fast and full recovery.”
The suspects remained at large as of Monday, police said.