Family Mourns NYPD Officer Rebecca De Paula After Death During Surgery in Dominican Republic
New York City Police Department Officer Rebecca De Paula, 31, died in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, following a cosmetic surgery procedure, according to her family. De Paula served in the 46th Precinct in the Bronx after joining the NYPD in January 2015, leaving behind three children and a grieving community.
Grief and Mourning Across the Bronx Precinct and Faith Community
De Paula passed away off-duty while traveling abroad, according to statements released by the New York City Police Department. Having served on the force for 18 months, she earned recognition as Officer of the Month just four months prior to her passing.
Beyond her duties in law enforcement, De Paula served as a pastor. Sailyng Schattuck, a member of her church, noted her constant guidance. “She was my pastor and friend,” Schattuck said. “God used her to help each of us in the church. She always helped us to follow a better path.”
Family members who remained in New York are now working alongside municipal authorities to manage the aftermath of the tragedy. Elena Santana, who described herself as a second mother to De Paula, spoke about the abrupt loss. “It feels like a light went out,” Santana said. “I’m devastated; I still have to sleep with medication; I can’t.” According to Santana, De Paula had entrusted her dog, Bambi, to her care before leaving for what was initially described as a brief two-week trip, mentioning only that she was heading to the Dominican Republic without disclosing the specific medical plans.
Logistical Coordination for Repatriation and Official Support
Relatives confirmed that De Paula’s body remained in the Dominican Republic while family members coordinate repatriation efforts with the New York City Police Department.
The NYPD issued a formal statement regarding the tragedy. “Our hearts are heavy with grief over the loss of our colleague, Officer Rebecca De Paula, who passed away off-duty after only 18 months on the force,” the department stated. “We ask all New Yorkers to keep her family, friends, and colleagues in their prayers during this difficult time.”
Community Impact and Long-Term Support for the Family
The loss of a single mother and active community servant ripples outward through the Bronx neighborhood where De Paula patrolled and the congregation she led. With three children surviving her, local community networks and support groups are mobilizing to provide stability for her family.
As loved ones prepare to welcome her back to New York City for final memorial services, the focus remains on honoring her dual legacy as an attentive mother, a dedicated municipal officer, and a spiritual leader. The community she served continues to lean on the relationships she built during her brief but impactful tenure in law enforcement and ministry.