Retired NYPD Sergeant Dies on Street Shortly After Being Diagnosed with COVID-19 at Hospital

Yon Chang, 56, who was at the Lenox Hill Hospital checking on his symptoms, left the hospital after feeling “frustrated” with the care that he was receiving, only to be found dead at about 6:05 a.m. on the traffic island at Park Ave. and E. 77th St, according to the New York Daily News.

Chang began to feel symptoms last week and worried family members told him to stay home.

“We can’t speak. This is a very difficult time. Please respect our family’s privacy,” Chang’s brother told the Daily News.

The Sergeants Benevolent Association released a statement on Tuesday, stating, “It is with much sadness that I announce the passing of Retired Sgt. Yon Chang, 56, of the 17 Precinct from Coronavirus on April 6, 2020,” adding, “Please keep Sgt. Chang and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Ed Mullins, president of the Sergeants Benevolent Association told the Daily News that “it’s almost like a science-fiction movie. This isn’t ending, and the impact of coronavirus is hitting the people who are closest to us,” 

“This is a sergeant who was at the point where he was retired, and he should be enjoying himself,” he added.

Chang joined the NYPD in February 1994, was promoted to sergeant in December 2006, and retired in February 2014, according to the New York Post.