Memorial service marks 1 year since deaths of NYPD Detectives Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera
NEW YORK -- A Memorial Mass got underway Saturday morning at St. Patrick's Cathedral to mark one year since NYPD Detectives Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera were shot and killed in the line of duty.
The detectives were remembered with sadness and great pride.
"We remember we lost two of our heroes who committed their lives to the safety of our city," Mayor Eric Adams said.
For Dominique Rivera, the pain of losing her husband is something she will carry forever, but at the mass, she announced she now carries "a miracle," saying she is pregnant with his child.
"Through sorrow and pain, there can also be a rebirth. I am blessed to say that Jason and I will be expecting our miracle this spring," she said.
The immediate reaction -- almost every officer, member of clergy and civilian jumped to their feet and cheered.
"To my unborn child, my hope is that with time, guidance and love, they, too, will get to know their father," Rivera said.
Today, we remember @NYPDnews Officers Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora, who were both fatally shot after responding to a call one year ago.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) January 21, 2023
We honor their memory, service, and heroism — and we continue the fight to stop gun violence and protect our communities.
Karina Mora spoke of her brother, Wilbert, and her gratitude for the outpouring of love and support.
Mora was 27 years old and Rivera 22 when they were killed by a gunman who ambushed them when they responded to a domestic call inside a Harlem apartment.
Detective Sumit Sulan, the third officer at the scene, returned fire and killed the gunman.
Mora and Rivera were both posthumously promoted to detective.
"We honor and remember two vibrant souls adored by their families, respected by their colleagues and committed to this city," NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell said.
It was a gathering of healing for the detectives' families and their colleagues, learning through the trauma of the past year that they're stronger together.
With heavy hearts, we gather today to remember Detective Jason Rivera and Detective Wilbert Mora… two heroes - eternally bound together.
— Commissioner Sewell (@NYPDPC) January 21, 2023
As the carriers of their memory & legacy, the NYPD and this city will #NeverForget their sacrifice. pic.twitter.com/OuynXqUqqp
"It's safe to say that we became closer, a family forged by tragedy," said Inspector Amir Yakatally, commanding officer of the NYPD 32nd Precinct.
Renewed promises of support and remembering came with a fresh element of joy because a hero's baby will arrive and this great, big extended family promises to be there every step of the way.