Rockville Centre in Nassau County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
McDonald Pond
Honoring the life and legacy of NYPD Detective Steven McDonald
— March 1, 1957 - January 10, 2017 —
Surviving a shooting on July 12, 1986 that left him paralyzed, NYPD Detective Steven McDonald, a Malverne resident, became an incredible example of the power of forgiveness and love for people around the world. Originally called the Model Boat Pond, this pond was renamed in 1988 as part of the Village of Rockville Centre's 75th Anniversary and to honor the life and legacy of Steven McDonald.
McDonald was appointed to the New York City Police Department on July 16, 1984. On July 12, 1986, his life drastically changed while responding to a bicycle theft in Central Park. On that day, McDonald was shot three times.
Several months after McDonald was shot, he forgave his attacker. Despite McDonald's injuries and being confined to a wheelchair, he remained an active member of the NYPD and even earned a promotion to Detective in 1995. He offered support to other wounded NYPD officers and became involved with the program 'Breaking the Cycle' which promotes forgiveness and nonviolent conflict resolution.
Erected by New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Law Enforcement. A significant historical date for this entry is July 12, 1986.
Location. 40°
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Changing Water Levels of Hempstead Lake (a few steps from this marker); A Fish of Mill River Legend (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named McDonald Pond (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Suburban Oasis Built by a Thirsty City (approx. 0.3 miles away); a different marker also named The Changing Water Levels of Hempstead Lake (approx. 0.6 miles away); St. Agnes World War II Memorial (approx. 0.8 miles away); Anvil (approx. 0.8 miles away); Saint Agnes (approx. 0.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Rockville Centre.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 16, 2024. It was originally submitted on January 16, 2024, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 47 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 16, 2024, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
