A New York City police recruit who experienced a medical emergency during training and passed away last week was posthumously honored at what would have been his police academy graduation ceremony. Police Commissioner Edward Caban expressed deep sadness and shock over the death of probationary officer Edgar Ordonez, acknowledging his potential to positively impact the city. Mayor Eric Adams, who has a background in law enforcement, offered condolences to Ordonez’s family during the ceremony at the Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Edgar Ordonez, aged 33, collapsed during training at Rodman’s Neck in the Bronx, a facility used for police activities like weapons and tactical exercises. He was declared deceased shortly after being taken to a nearby hospital. Investigators are looking into the possibility of Ordonez suffering from heat stroke or a heart attack. The day of Ordonez’s passing, a heat advisory was in effect for the Bronx, warning of high temperatures that could reach up to 99 F (37.2 C).

At the graduation ceremony, where 626 new officers officially became part of the police force, the loss of Ordonez cast a shadow over the celebrations. The cause of his death has not yet been determined, leaving his colleagues and loved ones mourning the untimely loss of a promising officer dedicated to serving the community.