NYPD Detective Who Survived 9-11 Related Cancer Dies From COVID-19 Complications

NEW YORK -- An NYPD detective who returned to work after battling 9/11-related cancer died of complications from COVID-19 on Wednesday.

Detective Robert Cardona is the fifth NYPD detective, and the 27th police department employee, to succumb to coronavirus, according to the New York Daily News.

Cardona, 41, was assigned to the 13th Precinct Detective Squad in Gramercy Park. He joined the NYPD in July of 2001, just two months before the September 11 terrorist attacks.

"Heroically, he had fought back against and was in remission from 9/11-related cancer at the time he was admitted to the hospital with coronavirus symptoms nearly one month ago,” NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said in a message to the police force. “To all of you: It is understandable to feel overwhelmed. We are frightened and tired. But like you, I have faith we will get through this and be a stronger and closer NYPD as a result. That faith might be shaken, but it will not be broken.”

He leaves behind an 8-year-old son.

“He was dedicated to his job and being a detective,” Detectives’ Endowment Association President Paul DiGiacomo told the newspaper. “Not only did he serve the people of the city, but he also served his fellow detectives.”