Hilario Larry Serrano

Hilario “Larry” Serrano, a dedicated 29-year-old New York City Police Officer, was a man committed to serving his community long before he wore an official badge. Remembered for his devotion to public service, he had been a member of the Guardian Angels and an Auxiliary Police Officer before joining the NYPD. For six years, he served with the 43rd Precinct in the Bronx, the borough he called home.

On the night of Friday, January 31, 1992, Officer Serrano was off-duty, visiting his mother at her apartment building on Andrews Avenue in the Morris Heights section of the Bronx. He and his girlfriend stepped into the building's elevator, and they were joined by two men. As the elevator began its ascent, the two men initiated a robbery. A violent struggle broke out in the confined space, escalating into a close-quarters gunfight.

Despite being grievously wounded, Officer Serrano fought back, returning fire and hitting both of his attackers. The elevator doors opened on the fourth floor, and the chaotic scene spilled out. The assailants fled, taking Officer Serrano's 9-millimeter service weapon with them. Serrano had sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including to his face, back, and foot. He was rushed to Lincoln Hospital, but his injuries were too severe, and he died just over an hour after the attack.

The investigation into the murder of an NYPD officer was swift and intensive. Detectives from the 46th Precinct squad quickly identified the suspects. Within days, both men were apprehended. They were subsequently charged with murder, robbery, and criminal possession of a weapon. The evidence indicated that the motive was a robbery that had turned deadly when Serrano resisted.

The legal proceedings took an unexpected turn two months after the arrests when one of the accused men died by suicide while in custody. The second suspect, however, proceeded through the justice system. He faced trial for his role in the fatal shooting and was ultimately convicted for the murder of Officer Hilario Serrano, receiving a sentence that ensured he would spend decades in prison.

The loss of Officer Serrano was deeply felt by his family, his colleagues in the 43rd Precinct, and the wider community he had sworn to protect. His journey from a volunteer Guardian Angel to a sworn officer of the NYPD exemplified a profound and lifelong commitment to the safety and well-being of others. His bravery in his final moments, fighting to protect himself and his companion against armed assailants, was a testament to the courage he displayed throughout his life and career.

The case is considered closed with the conviction of one of the perpetrators and the death of the other. The murder of Officer Hilario Serrano remains a painful memory of a dedicated officer's life cut short while defending himself and another from a violent crime. His name is honored among those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, a hero of the city he served.