Freshly minted NYPD Officer Xavier Duran was inspired to become a cop after witnessing a heroic act by an officer who saved his sister’s life following a tragic accident in Queens decades ago. When Duran was just nine years old in 1998, a big rig crashed into his family, resulting in his then 6-year-old sister, Jeanette, sustaining serious injuries. Quick-thinking cop Lino Minetto acted swiftly, grabbing Jeanette and rushing her to the hospital on his lap, ultimately saving her life. This act of kindness by Minetto left a lasting impact on Duran, igniting his desire to become a police officer and help others in need.
Xavier Duran was among the 588 recruits who graduated from the Police Academy, joining the ranks of the NYPD. At the graduation ceremony, Duran was cheered on by family and friends, including Minetto, who vividly remembered the harrowing accident he responded to years earlier. Recalling how Jeanette’s leg was nearly severed and she was bleeding profusely, Minetto emphasized the urgency of the situation, prompting him to take immediate action to save her life. Despite having to undergo the amputation of her leg, Jeanette made a full recovery, an outcome that Duran remains eternally grateful for.
For Minetto, witnessing Duran enter the force brought a sense of pride and fulfillment, as he firmly believes that Duran will be an exceptional police officer who will make a positive impact on his community and beyond. Reflecting on the accident and the subsequent recovery of Jeanette, Minetto expressed his admiration for the family’s resilience and faith, highlighting the role of prayer, medical intervention, and sheer willpower in her recuperation. Duran’s journey from a victim of a tragic accident to a member of law enforcement represents a poignant example of how one individual’s actions can inspire a ripple effect of goodness.
During the accident, Duran and his brother were thrown under the truck but miraculously emerged relatively unscathed, with only a few bruises. The driver of the truck was not charged criminally, as it was determined that he had been temporarily blinded by sunlight while turning at the intersection. Despite the traumatic experience, Duran’s family persevered, with Jeanette’s recovery serving as a testament to the power of hope, faith, and medical care. The incident left an indelible mark on Duran, reinforcing his determination to become a police officer and contribute positively to his community.
At the graduation ceremony, Mayor Eric Adams commended the newest members of the NYPD, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of serving as a police officer. Drawing from his own experiences in law enforcement, Adams highlighted the importance of fortitude, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. He encouraged the new recruits to recognize the privilege of serving the citizens of New York City and expressed his confidence in their ability to uphold the values of the NYPD. Adams emphasized the profound impact that law enforcement officers can have on individuals and communities, emphasizing the significance of their role in safeguarding and supporting society.
In conclusion, the story of Xavier Duran’s journey from a young witness to a life-saving act to a sworn officer of the NYPD encapsulates the transformative power of compassion, courage, and community. Duran’s decision to become a police officer was fueled by a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to pay forward the kindness shown to his family in their darkest hour. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the selflessness and bravery exhibited by law enforcement officers every day, as they work tirelessly to protect and serve their communities. As Duran embarks on his career as a police officer, he carries with him the lessons of the past, the support of his loved ones, and the hope of making a positive difference in the lives of others.
