Peter Zisopoulos, 37, has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the brutal murder of New York City Fire Department EMS Lieutenant Alison Russo-Elling.
The sentencing followed his conviction of second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with the shocking, unprovoked attack that occurred nearly three years ago.
The Crime That Shook the Community
On September 29, 2022, Russo-Elling, a 61-year-old first responder, was just months away from retirement when she was randomly attacked while walking to a nearby food store during her lunch break.
Zisopoulos, who did not know the victim, left his apartment building and “raced” toward Russo-Elling, shoved her to the ground, and began repeatedly stabbing her with a kitchen knife. He stabbed her more than 20 times, penetrating her liver, lungs, and heart.
Witnesses reported the horrifying scene, with a nearby scooter driver yelling at Zisopoulos to stop, which caused him to briefly chase the bystander before returning to the victim. Zisopoulos then walked back to his apartment, leaving Russo-Elling to bleed on the sidewalk.
Investigation and Arrest
A passerby sought help at a nearby EMS station, prompting authorities to quickly respond. Zisopoulos was arrested after a standoff at his apartment, where police found a knife in his pocket with both his and Russo-Elling’s DNA on it.
Russo-Elling was rushed to the hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. She was posthumously promoted to EMS Captain.
The Family’s Emotional Impact
During the sentencing, Russo-Elling’s family members expressed their grief and anger. Her daughter, Danielle Russo, addressed Zisopoulos directly, calling him a “monster” and condemning his lack of remorse.
FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker also spoke, emphasizing how much Russo-Elling is missed every day by her colleagues and loved ones.
“You sat in this courtroom with absolutely no reaction to your savage attack on my mother. She never saw it coming,” said Danielle Russo.
Zisopoulos’ History and Sentencing
Zisopoulos’ public defender stated that he had a psychiatric history dating back to 2018. However, the attack appeared to be entirely random and unprovoked, and there was no known connection between Zisopoulos and Russo-Elling.
In her statement, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz honored Russo-Elling for her dedicated service to the city, noting her involvement in search and recovery efforts after the September 11 attacks. Katz also remarked that while nothing would bring Russo-Elling back, the sentencing provided some closure for her family.
Zisopoulos will now serve 25 years to life in prison, where he will remain for the brutal and senseless murder of a beloved first responder.
