An NYPD cop committed suicide early Tuesday after he learned he was facing a Homeland Security Investigations’ probe, law enforcement said.
Salvatore A. Buscemi suffered an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in his West Islip home hours after federal authorities informed him he was under investigation, sources said.
The nine-year veteran of the force was met by Homeland Security personnel at JFK Airport when he got off a plane from Italy Monday, according to sources.
He was placed on modified duty by the NYPD and was forced to hand over the four guns he had registered with the department, sources said.
The focus of the federal probe was not clear Tuesday.
A relative heard Buscemi fire his gun early Tuesday morning, according to sources.
A trove of additional weapons was recovered from the home following his death, sources said.
Suffolk County police declined comment because the death was part of a “non-criminal” investigation.
The NYPD did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday evening. The Post has also sought comment from HSI.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
Additional reporting by Amanda Woods
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