You are reading

Off-Duty EMT Takes His Own Life, Body Found Near Astoria Park: NYPD

April 25, 2020 By Michael Dorgan (Update: April 26)

A 23-year-old EMT worker was found dead with a gunshot wound to his head in an apparent suicide floating in the East River Friday night, according to police.

Police discovered the body of John Mondello, 23, after responding to a 911 call at around 6:50 p.m. that there was an individual in the water near 25-40 Shore Blvd. by Astoria Park.

Mondello, a rookie EMT worker, was found unconscious lying face up with a gunshot wound under his chin. He was removed from the water and EMS pronounced him dead at the scene.

A Smith & Wesson firearm was found in his hand, according to police.

Police do not suspect any foul play.

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit NYCWell.

email the author: news@queenspost.com

3 Comments

Click for Comments 
Reggie

This is tragic. This young fellow has probably seen more death than most of us will ever see in our lifetimes. Suicide is not the answer. There is no shame in seeking help.

Reply
Psychosis is the newest symptom.of covid 19.

Stop thinking that these people MEANT to kill themselves now.

2
6
Reply
Gia

As we now know this young man was a recently graduated EMT. Whatever pain you’re feeling, the pain inflicted on your family is far worse, get help ASAP.

21
Reply

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News

Fall fun in western Queens: Your guide to the best seasonal events

Aug. 29, 2025 By Jessica Militello

With beach days and summer BBQs behind us, the start of September rings in the start of magnificent Fall foliage, Halloween and more fun activities that come with the start of Autumn, including a list of Fall events in the area. From apple picking to seasonal ciders and more, there is tons to explore in the community. From Mystic Markets to scary movie meet-ups and more, here is a list of Fall events you do not want to miss.

A hidden gem in Sunnyside: Bistro Punta Sal blends Peruvian and Italian flavors

Aug. 29, 2025 By Jessica Militello

On a quiet street in Sunnyside, Bistro Punta Sal has its French doors wide open, letting the late August breeze emanate throughout the space, which is ornate with flowers, paintings and an array of tables and chairs for intimate dinners with friends or a romantic date night. The cozy restaurant, located at 45-51 46th St., is a hidden gem in the neighborhood that is just waiting to be discovered, as the sights and aromas of the restaurant invite guests in. 

Queens Together launches ‘Unofficial US Open Dining Guide’ encouraging fans to sample restaurants along the 7 line

Aug. 20, 2025 By Shane O’Brien

The US Open returns to Flushing Meadows Corona Park this Sunday, with more than 1 million attendees anticipated to take mass transit to the iconic annual tennis event. With hundreds of thousands of fans set to take the 7 out to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, there is a world of delicious local eateries lying beneath the elevated train tracks should any fan wish to stop en-route to the US Open.