Patrolman Lawrence Stefane

Lawrence Stefane

Patrolman Lawrence Stefane was stabbed to death after being attacked by a man suffering from a mental health issue.

Patrolman Stefane and his partner were sitting in their police vehicle when a man approached and tapped on the window. When Patrolman Stefane rolled it down, the man leaned in and stabbed him in the chest with a butcher's carving knife.

The suspect then attempted to attack Patrolman Stefane's partner. Although fatally wounded, Officer Stefane was able to lean over and push his partner out of harm's way and fire three rounds critically wounding his assailant before losing consciousness. Patrolman Stefane was transported to a local hospital by his partner where he succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect had been released from a psychiatric hospital two days earlier. He was convicted of Patrolman Stefane's murder and sentenced to life in prison with no parole.

Patrolman Stefane had served with the New York City Police Department for three years and was assigned to the 9th Precinct. He is survived by his wife, parents, and two brothers.