Detective Joseph A. Picciano

Detective Joseph A. Picciano

New York City Police Department, New York

End of Watch Monday, February 15, 1971

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Joseph A. Picciano

Detective Joseph Picciano was shot and killed by a prisoner at the 41st Precinct building at 1086 Simpson Street.

Detective Picciano was fingerprinting a suspect that he and other members of the 41st Precinct Detective Squad had arrested for abducting a 13-year-old boy. As he was being fingerprinted, the suspect began to struggle with Detective Picciano. During the struggle, Detective Picciano's service revolver fell to the ground. The suspect was able to gain control of the weapon and fired two shots, killing Detective Picciano.

Other members of the Detective Squad were able to return fire, killing the suspect.

Detective Picciano had served with the New York City Police Department for ten years and was assigned to the 41st Detective Squad. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

  • Age 33
  • Tour 10 years, 2 months
  • Badge 2281

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Shot and killed

Most Recent Reflection

View all 26 Reflections

I HAD THE HONOR OF MEETING A FAMILY MEMBER OF DET. PICCINO
TODAY AT A MEDICAL CENTER IN
ISLIP NY. I BELIEVE IT WAS HIS COUSIN
HE MENTIONED TO ME THAT HIS COUSIN WAS A POLICE DETECTIVE
IN NEW YORK CITY AND WAS KILLED
IN 1971. BEING A YOUNG ROOKIE
POLICE OFFICER AT THE TIME
WITH 3 YEARS OF SERVICE ASSIGNED
TO THE TACTICAL PATROL FORCE
I REMEMBERED MURDER OF PTL.
PICCANO AND HOW HE WAS KILLED
MY CONDOLENCES FROM MY WIFE
AND I GO OUT TO THE FAMILY
HE WAS A TRUE HERO.

DET. DANIEL C. AUSTIN. RET.
NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

October 23, 2024

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