Mural, Plaque Honors Det. Miosotis Familia, 2 Years After She Was Ambushed In The Bronx
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The NYPD remembered a fallen hero Friday.
Today marks two years since NYPD Det. Miosotis Familia was shot to death in a mobile command unit in the Bronx.
The 48-year-old mother of three was killed shortly after midnight on July 5, 2017 in Fordham Heights.
It's hard to believe it's been 2 years since NYPD Det. Miosotis Familia was murdered in the Bronx. The time that's passed doesn't make the loss easier to deal with, understand, or accept. We still feel the pain and, every day, we think about all we've lost. We miss you, Miosotis. pic.twitter.com/CThP0anUzQ
— Commissioner Sewell (@NYPDPC) July 5, 2019
She was ambushed by Alexander Bonds, an ex-con with a history of mental health issues. He was shot and killed near the scene.
Now her image will stand watch in a mural unveiled during an emotional ceremony.
Web Extra: Complete Plaque, Mural Dedication Ceremony
A vigil was held Friday morning outside the 46th Precinct, where Familia worked for 12 years.
"My mother loved being a cop, and she loved the NYPD," said Genesis Familia, her daughter.
For Familia's three children, the wounds from the July 5, 2017 are still raw. That's the day they lost their mother and New York City lost a hero.
"She really believed that being a police officer was her calling," Genesis said.
Genesis recalled the last time she saw her mother.
"She came back in and she hugged me even tighter, and she said 'I love you' and I said 'I love you too mom, see you tomorrow'," Genesis said.
Police Commissioner James O'Neill says time has not made the loss easier to understand, or accept.
"We will never forget Miosotis' sacrifice and will continue to celebrate the life she lead, and we will always support you, the people for whom she loved and cared for each day," said O'Neill.
The mural unveiled at the 46th Precinct resembles her official NYPD photo, and stands as a symbol for fellow officers.
"I selected the location of this mural at the front of the precinct, so that every day during the change of tours, she may look upon us and give us her blessing and lift our spirits with her beautiful smile," Dep. Inspector Richard Brea said.
Familia's family was overwhelmed.
"It's beautiful to see a mural, to see her face and for her to be honored this way," Genesis said.
Last year, a street outside the 46th Precinct was renamed in her honor.