Bronx: Off-duty NYPD detective stabbed during attempted robbery

An off-duty NYPD detective, identified as 33-year-old José Mercedes, was stabbed up to seven times during an attempted robbery in the Norwood section of the Bronx on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred near East 208th Street and Steuben Avenue while Mercedes was retrieving items from his vehicle. Two suspects attempted to steal a gold chain from his neck, leading to a struggle and multiple stab wounds to his neck and torso.

Despite his injuries, Mercedes pursued the suspects for approximately two blocks before collapsing. The attackers fled the scene on an electric motorcycle. Following the attack, the NYPD launched a massive search operation involving dozens of units and three helicopters over several neighborhoods, including Gun Hill Road and Fordham Road.

Mercedes was transported to Jacobi Medical Center, where he is reported to be in stable condition and expected to survive. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch visited the officer in the hospital. Authorities are actively searching for the two suspects, who remain at large.