New York City Police Department, New York • Line of Duty Death: January 7, 2025

New York City Police Department (NYPD) Inspector Vicki McDermott passed away from 9/11-related brain cancer on January 7, 2025. McDermott worked over 2,300 hours at the site of the World Trade Center collapse after the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. She died just days before her 63rd birthday. 

McDermott was assigned to work as an investigator at the World Trade Center to help federal agencies collect evidence and information. She was diagnosed with stage 4 Glioblastoma in April of 2024. McDermott served with the NYPD for 29 years. She held the rank of Inspector – Executive Director – Special Victims Unit.

McDermott grew up in Sunnyside, Queens, New York, and attended Queen of Angels Elementary School. She graduated from St. Francis Prep High School, and then attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice, earning a Master’s Degree. She always aspired to be part of the NYPD family. She was thrilled to be hired and was a dedicated law enforcement officer for 29 years, moving through the ranks. She went on to hold many leadership positions and spent much of her career in the Special Victims Unit, where she felt she made the greatest impact. McDermott felt the need to help protect the victims of these crimes and to protect the community. She handled thousands of cases over the years. She was part of the intelligence unit during the 9/11 Terrorist attacks and the aftermath investigation.

McDermott met her future husband, Ed, through a mutual friend. They had a lot in common and were a good match. Both of them were very involved in sports and athletics and had a 35 year partnership participating in the New York City Marathon and the New York Road Runners Club. She also played tennis and was an avid golfer. Their marriage was an endless stream of adventures and surprises. She was a force of nature who made things happen. She was loyal and kept her word. She knew her work had an impact on peoples lives, and she was dedicated to helping victims of sexual assault in particular. 

NYPD Inspector Vicki McDermott is survived by her husband of over 30 years, Edward.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the McDermott family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.