A New York City Police Department detective was released from the hospital after he was stabbed multiple times during a robbery in the Bronx last week, according to officials.
Detective Jose Mercedes was wheeled out of Jacobi Medical Center in Morris Park on Monday before standing up in front of a group of clapping officers.
“Today, in another incredible feat of strength and determination, Detective Mercedes got up from his wheelchair and walked out of Jacobi Medical Center on his own two feet. Hundreds of members of the NYPD were there to cheer their brother on,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said on X.
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“The entire department stands behind Detective Mercedes as he continues his recovery. And the greatest detectives in the world will relentlessly pursue those responsible for this crime,” she added.
Mercedes was off-duty when two suspects on an e-bike attempted to snatch his gold chain as he was clearing out the trunk of his car in the Norwood neighborhood on Friday afternoon, according to officials.
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The detective attempted to fight back, but he was stabbed and slashed seven times during the struggle before the assailants fled. Authorities said the confrontation began when the men attempted to steal his gold chain.
Mercedes then pursued the fleeing attackers on foot for about two blocks before collapsing near East 206th Street and Rochambeau Avenue.
“Despite his serious injuries, Detective Mercedes chased after his attackers on foot,” Tisch said.
Tisch and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani visited him in the hospital shortly after the attack.
“I visited the detective and his family at Jacobi Hospital with Police Commissioner Tisch,” the mayor said on Friday. “I am hoping for his quick and complete recovery.”
The two attackers remain at large, police said on Monday.
