Lt. Alison Russo-Elling, a 25-year FDNY EMS veteran and 9/11 first responder, was killed after being stabbed during an attack.
According to CBS New York, the random attack in Queens occurred on Thursday around 2:15 p.m. while she was working at Station 49 on 20th Avenue and 41st Street in Astoria.
“While outside her station she was stabbed multiple times in a barbaric and completely unprovoked attack,” Acting FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said, as CBS New York reported.
She added, “Members of EMS serve only to help and save other people’s lives. To be attacked and killed in the course of helping others is both heartbreaking and enraging for our department in ways I can’t describe.”
The suspect was reportedly identified as 34-year-old Peter Zisopoulos.
He was taken into custody after barricading himself in a building nearby.
The outlet noted Zisopoulos was charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement, “Our hearts go out to the family, her colleagues and the city of New York. We lost one of our heroes.”
New York Attorney General Letitia James tweeted, “Today, New York lost a hero in the line of duty. A 9/11 first responder with over 20 years of service, EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo dedicated her career to selflessly caring for New Yorkers. May she rest in peace.”
Several other Twitter users shared their reactions:
https://twitter.com/GigiGraciette/status/1575624001887424512
Additionally, Fox News reported New York Gov. Kathy Hochul ordered flags at state buildings to fly at half-staff in Russo-Elling’s honor.