Holly MatkinManhattan, NY – New York Police Department (NYPD) Officer James “Jimmy” Hughes died in the line of duty while working at police headquarters on June 27.
Officer Hughes, 59, was generally assigned to Transit District 33 in Brooklyn, but was working a security shift at the One Police Plaza headquarters when he began experiencing pains in his chest at approximately 9 p.m., according to the New York Daily News.
He was rushed to a local hospital, but did not survive the medical emergency.
Officer Hughes served the NYPD for 34 years, according to his obituary.
The New York City Police Benevolent Association (PBA) said in Facebook post that it was “shocked and saddened” by the sudden loss of their “brother.”
The union described Officer Hughes as “a good cop, a good friend, and a loyal PBA member [who was] taken from us too soon.”
Officer Hughes loved his job and his fellow officers, according to his obituary.
“Many of Jimmy’s coworkers have recalled his humor, selflessness and compassion,” the tribute read. “He not only protected the community he served, but gave of himself for its betterment and he did so quietly and humbly.”
One of his fellow officers said he personally witnessed Officer Hughes using “money out of his own pocket to give it to people [who] didn’t have anything to eat,” according to his obituary. “There were times he’d buy the homeless food and bring it to them outside the precinct.”
“The news and politicians never highlight these stories but I wanted to put it out there because Jimmy deserved to be recognized for his contributions to society and the dedication he put into his work,” the officer said, according to the tribute.
Officer Hughes “lifted spirits” with his “unique sense of humor,” and loved to make others smile, his obituary read.
“To his last breath on earth, Jimmy spent his life protecting the citizens of New York City…he was so proud to wear that uniform,” his obituary read. “May we always remember Jimmy for his love, laughter, humor, compassion, dedication and for living life with no regrets. And may he continue to protect us from above and may God Bless the NYPD.”
Officer Hughes leaves behind his mother and brother, as well as many friends and extended family members.
He was laid to rest on July 2.
It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Police Officer James Hughes who passed away last night while working @ 1 Police Plaza. Please keep the Hughes family in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/h5Cfpw2ifV
— NYPD Manhattan South (@NYPDPBMS) June 28, 2020
The NYPD has lost a good cop, a good man and a good friend too many. Police Officer JAMES HUGHES of @NYPDTransit District 33 sadly passed away last night while working. Thank you James for being you and thank you for your service. You will be missed by many. @NYCPBA pic.twitter.com/HleJix2eg4
— Juan Zubizarreta (@JZubiPBA) June 28, 2020
At approximately 10:00 A.M. there will be a 3 part live-stream for the funeral of Police Officer James Hughes who passed away on June 27th. pic.twitter.com/M8R08XkWDr
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) July 2, 2020
WATCH LIVE as we salute Police Officer James Hughes one last time.
We thank him for nearly 35 years of service to the City of New York. https://t.co/Ic6a3Yxmts
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) July 2, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of New York Police Department Officer James “Jimmy” Hughes, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
