Tragedy struck the New York Police Department on Tuesday when Salvatore A. Buscemi, a nine-year veteran of the force, died by suicide at his home in West Islip, Long Island. His death came just hours after he learned he was under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Confrontation at JFK
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
According to law enforcement sources, the series of events began Monday when Buscemi returned from a trip to Italy. Upon arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport, he was confronted by federal agents and advised that he was the subject of an HSI probe. Authorities have not disclosed the scope of the investigation, citing its ongoing status.
Following the encounter, the NYPD placed Buscemi on modified duty and required him to surrender his four department-registered firearms, standard protocol for officers under review. Friends said the situation appeared to weigh heavily on him in the hours that followed.
The Final Hours
In the early hours of Tuesday, a relative inside the family’s West Islip home heard a gunshot and discovered Buscemi had sustained a self-inflicted wound. Emergency responders were called but were unable to save him.
Investigators later recovered additional weapons from the residence beyond those already surrendered to the department. Authorities have not released specifics about the type or quantity of firearms found.
Official Responses
The Suffolk County Police Department confirmed they are handling the matter as a “non-criminal investigation” due to the nature of Buscemi’s death. The NYPD has not issued an official statement, while HSI has also declined to comment publicly.
The silence from agencies has left unanswered questions regarding the nature of the federal probe, compounding the grief of Buscemi’s colleagues, neighbors, and family members.
A Troubling Pattern
Buscemi’s death adds to a concerning pattern of suicides within the NYPD. In recent years, several officers have taken their own lives, prompting department officials to call attention to the ongoing mental health crisis in law enforcement.
Despite the availability of hotlines, counseling, and peer support programs, advocates say stigma still prevents many officers from seeking help. Experts stress that early intervention and open dialogue are critical to preventing such tragedies.
Remembering a Life of Service
Friends and relatives describe Buscemi as a man who took pride in his work and his nearly decade-long career in policing. While the details surrounding the investigation remain unclear, those close to him are now focused on mourning a dedicated officer whose sudden loss has left a void in his family and the wider NYPD community.
A Message of Awareness
Buscemi’s death underscores the pressures faced by police officers on and off duty. It also highlights the urgent need for continued investment in mental health resources and efforts to break the stigma around seeking support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide:
In New York City, call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential counseling.
Nationwide, dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
Help is always available.