Detective Brian Simonsen is being remembered as a “cop’s cop” and someone who gave his life for New York City.
The 42-year-old detective was killed on Tuesday in a friendly fire incident while responding to a robbery at a T-Mobile store in Queens. Simonsen and his sergeant were among the first on the scene.
They ran to that danger. They didn't have to go there, but they're cops and they ran over there to assist the other officers that were responding,” Chief of Patrol Terry Monahan said.
The suspect, 27-year-old Christopher Ransom, allegedly raised a fake gun at officers and began to walk towards them. Officers fired 42 shots in 11 seconds and Simonsen was struck once in the chest and killed.
“His legacy is one of unflinching service and now, the ultimate sacrifice,” Monahan said.
Sergeant Matthew Gorman was also shot and is expected to be okay.
The suspect was shot 8 times.Ransom is hospitalized in stable condition and is now facing murder and robbery charges.
Simonsen spent his entire 19-year career in the 102nd precinct and lived with his family on Long Island.
Simonsen’s funeral will be held next Wednesday at Saint Rosalie Roman Catholic Church in Hampton Bays.
Photo Credit: Alice Stockton-Rossini
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