Man sentenced to life for brutal attack on FDNY paramedic

In September 2022, Alison Russo-Elling, a veteran emergency responder and FDNY paramedic, was brutally stabbed to death while on a break, walking to a nearby store for a snack. Peter Zisopoulos, 37, was charged and subsequently convicted of second-degree murder in May 2023. The attack occurred just months before Russo-Elling was set to retire after a distinguished career in public service that included responding to the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001. Zisopoulos was found with a bloody knife after the incident, despite claiming he was asleep at home when it occurred. Following a jury's deliberation of less than an hour, Zisopoulos was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison in June 2025. The court deemed the murder senseless and brutal, solidifying the case's impact on both the FDNY community and Russo-Elling's family. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker expressed their gratitude for the maximum sentence, which they believe will provide some closure for Russo-Elling’s loved ones. The tragic event ignited conversations on the vulnerability of emergency responders, who often face dangers even in their downtime. Alison Russo-Elling's legacy lives on as a testament to her dedication to service. Her family remarked on the difficulties faced after such a loss, but expressed hope that justice had been served. The FDNY community continues to mourn her death, emphasizing the personal sacrifices made by first responders. Zisopoulos’s conviction also raises questions about mental health evaluations in the judicial system, as his history of psychiatric issues was noted during the trial. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges emergency workers face and the need for ongoing support for their mental well-being. As discussions around first responder safety and mental health continue, the case underscores a serious societal issue regarding the violence faced by those who serve. The FDNY and their supporters advocate for increased awareness and measures to protect these individuals as they carry out critical duties in service of their communities.