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Steven Hernandez: Cop, 28, with 'mental issues' jumps to death from NYC building's roof in broad daylight

Before his death, Steven Hernandez has put a post that read, 'Please help me. Please love me. Please care for me. Please listen to me'

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

QUEENS, NEWYORK: An NYPD officer reportedly jumped from the roof of an apartment building in broad daylight and reportedly died by suicide on Tuesday, January 10. Steven Hernandez, 28, was pronounced dead at Lefrak City Apartments in Flushing, Queens, shortly before 12.30 pm.

Police said that he jumped after he left a department psychiatrist appointment, according to the NY Post. Hernandez was a six-year veteran and joined the force in 2017. He has two children and was transferred to the 121st precinct in 2022. According to sources, he was placed on restricted duty and his service weapons had been taken away. The NYPD had put him on desk assignment but the reason behind the step has not been revealed.

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Hernandez showed signs of struggling with his mental health. He had posted some things on social media which raised concerns among his friends. On November 10, 2022, a post of his read, "Please help me. Please love me. Please care for me. Please listen to me. PLEASE COMMUNICATE WITH ME. PLEASE SPEND TIME ON ME!" 

A friend responded with, "Stay strong… you got this think positive and all the people who love and care about you." Another wrote, "I messaged my number to you if you need to talk I’m here for you I know your far away but I love you and if I can do anything for you just let me know."

Hernandez very often referred to his "racing thoughts" and sought help, per the Daily Mail. He criticised President Joe Biden and the vaccine mandates in some of his posts from 2021 while in some he stated that police officers were "dads" and "humans."

Commissioner Keechant Sewell mourned Hernandez's death on Tuesday. He tweeted, "Our NYPD family mourns the tragic death of a member of the service. Our thoughts & prayers are w/ the member’s family & friends. You are never alone, help is always available. Law enforcement, text BLUE to 741741 (others, text TALK) to be connected to someone who can help 24/7."