Russel Timoshenko was a dedicated New York City Police Department officer whose service and sacrifice left a lasting impact on the city and his fellow officers.

Born in Belarus, Russel immigrated to the United States with his family in 1993, seeking a better life. Russel Timoshenko graduated Totenville High School and pursued a degree in engineering attending Polytechnic University. With a just a few credits short of completing his degree, Russel decided to enter the Police Academy. He was full of life and full of promise. He liked the job and was proud of being an officer – “I want to go to work each day and help people. I want to come home each night and feel good about what I’ve done,” he announced to his parents on the day of his graduation from the Academy.

Officer Timoshenko was assigned to the 71st Precinct in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, where he quickly earned a reputation for professionalism, courage, and kindness. He was known by friends, colleagues, and family as warm-hearted, dedicated, and deeply committed to protecting others. On July 9, 2007, while conducting a traffic stop in Crown Heights with his partner Officer Herman Yan, Timoshenko was shot in the head by an armed suspect. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries five days later on July 14, 2007, at the age of 23.

His tragic death highlighted both the dangers faced by police officers and the strength of their commitment to duty. Thousands of mourners, including fellow officers, city officials, and members of the community, attended his funeral to honor his sacrifice.

In December 2008, one suspect was found guilty of Aggravated Murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. The second suspect was found not guilty of Aggravated Murder but found guilty of Criminal Possession of a Weapon. The trial of the third suspect ended in a mistrial, but he was convicted of Aggravated Murder in a second trial and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

In recognition of his bravery, Officer Timoshenko was posthumously promoted to Detective, First Grade. His name is inscribed on the NYPD Memorial Wall at One Police Plaza and on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Russel Timoshenko is remembered as a hero who gave his life in the line of duty. His legacy continues to inspire police officers, New Yorkers, and all who value courage and selflessness.