Police Officer Ted W. Donald

Police Officer Ted W. Donald

New York City Housing Authority Police Department, New York

End of Watch Friday, June 15, 1979

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Ted W. Donald

Officer Donald was shot and killed after responding to a burglary in progress call.

Officer Donald and his partner responding to a burglary in progress call in the Butler Housing Projects in the Bronx. When they arrived they found the door to the apartment had the lock drilled out. The officers entered the apartment and as they walked down the hall, Patrolman Donald was shot in the head and chest. Patrolman Donald's partner returned fire and the suspect surrendered. He was arrested and charged with murder.

The suspect, 32, said he had permission to be in the apartment and mistook Officer Donald for the burglar. On August 2, 1980, he was convicted of criminally negligent homicide. The maximum penalty is four years.

Patrolman Donald had served with the New York City Housing Authority Police Department for 9 years and was survived by his wife and daughter. He was assigned to Service Area 7.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 9 years
  • Badge 3310

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .38 caliber
  • Offender Convicted of negligent homicide

Most Recent Reflection

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers
Merrimack, NH 03054

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 15, 2025

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