An outpouring of support, outrage over FDNY EMS provider's murder
As news of Lt. Alison Russo-Elling's death spread, people took to social media to express their condolences
By Rachel Engel
NEW YORK CITY — Following the fatal on-duty stabbing of FDNY EMS Lt. Alison Russo-Elling this week, messages of condolences, outrage and shock flooded social media. Dozens of posts from public safety agencies and state and local officials, as well as fellow first responders, offered emotional support to Russo-Elling's family, friends and EMS colleagues. Many decried the violence against first responders that has became a persistent battle in the last several years.
Gov. Kathy Hochul directed flags in the state to be flown at half-staff begining Friday until the conclusion of Russo-Elling's funeral service.
New York State officials
We lost a hero today.
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) September 29, 2022
Alison Russo-Elling was a 25 year veteran of FDNY EMS. She was murdered on duty in an unprovoked attack.
Her assailant is in custody.
Lt. Russo-Elling gave so much for our city. Please keep her family and the FDNY in your prayers tonight. pic.twitter.com/LjD9qY0q1e
I have directed flags on state buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor of fallen @FDNY EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling.
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) September 30, 2022
We remember Lt. Russo-Elling’s life, honor her service, and pray for her loved ones.
Public safety agencies
An attack on one of us, is an attack on all of us - God bless #FDNY EMS Lt. Alison Russo-Elling & all our hard working & dedicated FDNY EMS brothers & sisters.
— Frank Leeb (@Firefrank76) September 30, 2022
RIP sister, we will never forget you or your dedication in service of others
🙏🚑🚒🙏 pic.twitter.com/PxM3eghS8W
We are deeply saddened by the passing of @FDNY EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling, who was killed in the line of duty in Astoria, Queens. Her bravery will not be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/353S5jCu4J
— New York Mets (@Mets) September 30, 2022
FDNY EMTs Robert Szendrey and John Nicosia along with Firefighter Jake Diaz drape purple and black bunting on the exterior of #FDNY EMS Station 49 where Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling was assigned. Read more: https://t.co/A9lBTV4238 pic.twitter.com/gA8bgHZtTQ
— FDNY (@FDNY) September 30, 2022
The NYPD stands united with the @FDNY as we mourn the loss of a dedicated, courageous public servant. The deadly, senseless attack on an on-duty EMT is a direct assault on our society. Please keep the family of EMS Lt. Alison Russo-Elling and the #FDNY in your hearts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/q6f7XN9oDc
— Commissioner Sewell (@NYPDPC) September 29, 2022
Charlotte Fire sends condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Emergency Medical Service Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling of @FDNY https://t.co/iNyDGxTFaX
— Charlotte Fire Dept. (@charlottefire) September 30, 2022
We send our sympathy to the family & friends of FDNY EMS Lt Alison Russo-Elling. She was stabbed and killed while serving the City of New York. May she Rest In Peace. https://t.co/P4L4UH07YB
— Ramapo Police Dept. (@Ramapo_PD) September 30, 2022
Local 718 sends our deepest condolences to our Brothers & Sisters of @FDNY in the wake of the tragic Line of Duty Death of 25 yr veteran EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling. Lieutenant Russo-Elling was stabbed and killed Thursday while working at EMS Station 49 in Astoria, Queens. pic.twitter.com/CetB3nPYg8
— Boston Firefighters Local 718 IAFF (@LOCAL_718) September 30, 2022
#SGPDNY stand in solidarity as we mourn the loss of FDNY EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling, who was killed in the line of duty yesterday.
— Sea Gate Police Department, NY (@SGPDNY) September 30, 2022
Let us keep the family, friends, and fellow colleagues of FDNY EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/ygiYldZFat