For the second time in 5 days, thousands of police officers gathered at midtown Manhattan’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral to mourn the passing of one of their own. This time it was Wilbert Mora, 27, who died last month from injuries sustained in the same attack that killed his partner, fellow Officer Jason Rivera.
Mora’s sister Karina and brother Wilson spoke at the service.
“I just want you to know that I was always proud of you, you chose a life of service to your community into our adopted country,” Wilson Mora said. “Your fellow officers were not only coworkers, they were friends and family. And now they’re my family. I love you baby bro and I will always miss you.”
Mayor Eric Adams attended the funeral and shared a few words.
“You must know we share your grief and feel your sorrow,” Adams said, addressing Mora’s parents.
“Officer Mora was not only a dedicated public servant but an exceptional young man, beloved by his family, the youngest of four children,” Adams said. “We reflect on his bravery. Remember his sacrifice.”
Mora was celebrated for being an organ donor –saving the lives of five others after his death.
“He was proud to wear the blue uniform and serve the city of New York. He saved lives, but he did something else that really reflects how special he was as an individual. After his transition from the physical to the spiritual, he donated his organs to five individuals who are now going to have life-saving abilities based on what he did,” Adams said.
“Last week Adams released a plan to end gun violence in the city, which includes the deployment of more officers in certain neighborhoods. He is expected to meet with President Biden on Thursday to talk about gun crime,” the Hill reports.
Adams at funeral for slain NYPD officer: "We will protect our city" https://t.co/2XC6Tz2rl3 pic.twitter.com/j8rwemcWC5
— The Hill (@thehill) February 2, 2022