Accused Killer of FDNY EMS Capt. Alison Russo Deemed Unfit for Trial in Queens Court

Amidst the proceedings in Queens Criminal Court, the man accused of the stabbing death of FDNY EMS Capt. Alison Russo was declared unfit to stand trial. Peter Zisopoulos, 36, is facing charges for the unprovoked attack that took place in Astoria, Queens, on Sept. 29, 2022, as reported by NY Daily News. Capt. Russo, a 25-year veteran of the FDNY, was off duty getting food when Zisopoulos, then 34, allegedly ambushed and fatally stabbed her in a brutal attack.

With the suspect's mental fitness in question, a subsequent emergency psych evaluation was conducted. Zisopoulos' attorneys argued in court that he has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. According to a CBS News report, the judge is expected to further examine the conclusions of Zisopoulos' doctors in an upcoming hearing. As the defense cites this mental health condition, the prosecution maintains that the suspect had a specific intent to kill at the time of the attack.

The trial began with Assistant D.A. Jonathan Selkowe stating that Zisopoulos had "the desire to kill," as seen in the surveillance footage of the incident, as per NY Daily News. Russo, who was posthumously promoted to captain by the FDNY during her funeral, was stabbed near her stationhouse by Zisopoulos, resulting in injuries that affected both soft tissue and vital organs.

Defense lawyer Gina Mitchell raised questions about the defendant's intent during the trial. "Did he intend to kill her?" she asked jurors. The prosecution is required to prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt, regardless of the distressing details or the sympathy for Capt. Russo, as she was quoted by NY Daily News. The prosecution's response and evidence offer a contrasting account, highlighting the intentional nature of the stabbing.

FDNY EMS Lt. Anthony Almojera expressed the collective frustration, saying, "Obviously, this is frustrating for the [FDNY] members and the family, especially, because we have to keep coming back here. Justice delayed is justice not served," in a statement obtained by CBS News. Capt. Russo, who responded to 9/11 and served her community for over two decades, is remembered for her service and as a respected figure by many, a sentiment expressed by those who knew her and continue to seek resolution in this case.