News of the passing of NYPD Detective Steven McDonald spread fast Tuesday, sparking an outpouring of thoughts and prayers on social media.

The NYPD's official statement on McDonald's death called the detective a "unique source of inspiration and unrivaled pride to people the world over."

"It is with great sadness that Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill, and the men and women of the New York City Police Department, announce the death of Detective First Grade Steven McDonald, who passed away shortly after 1 p.m. today at North Shore University Hospital on Long Island while in the comforting presence of his wife Patti Ann; his son Conor, an NYPD sergeant; his friends and colleagues. Detective McDonald, 59, was appointed to the NYPD on July 16, 1984. He was shot and critically injured while patrolling Central Park in 1986, just four days shy of his second anniversary as a police officer. In the time since, Detective McDonald has been a unique source of inspiration and unrivaled pride to people the world over. A quadriplegic, he visited police station houses, schools, church groups and more, spreading his message of faith, forgiveness, and peace. “No one could have predicted that Steven would touch so many people, in New York and around the world,” said Commissioner O’Neill. “Like so many cops, Steven joined the NYPD to make a difference in people’s lives. And he accomplished that every day. He is a model for each of us as we go about our daily lives. He will be greatly missed, and will always remain a part of our family."

Police Commissoner James O'Neill called McDonald a "source of inspiration and incredible hope to people the world over."

McDonald was a Rangers fan. The team named an award after him and presented it every year to a player who "goes above and beyond the normal call of duty."

The team posted a video tribute to McDonald Tuesday afternoon on Twitter.

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Brandon Dubinsky, who won the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award when he played for the Rangers, shared his memories of the detective.

Rangers captain Ryan McDonagh also honored McDonald, referring to him as a "true hero."

Many other members of the law enforcement community and elected officials expressed their condolences after learning about McDonald's death.

Mayor Bill de Blasio:

"New York City is heartbroken by the loss of NYPD Detective Steven McDonald, who for 30 years has been this city’s greatest example of heroism and grace. I will forever cherish my last conversation with Detective McDonald, late last year. His words encouraged all of us to continue to bring police and communities closer together. On Saturday, I joined the McDonald family at his bedside and shared their grief and the comfort of their boundless faith. This extraordinary family lives Detective McDonald’s message of forgiveness and service every day. We are blessed that NYPD Detective Sergeant Conor McDonald continues in his father’s footsteps and will ensure his legacy lives on in the greatest police department in the world. The story of Detective Steven McDonald needs to be understood across the United States, especially as we work to heal the wounds of the past. There is no greater example of honor and service to others. Let it be our mission to continue his work."

Governor Andrew Cuomo:

Former NYPD Commissioner Bernard Kerik:

PBA President Pat Lynch: 

"Steven McDonald was the most courageous and forgiving man I have ever known.  Despite the tremendous pain in his life, both physical and emotional, his concern for his fellow police officers and for the people of New York City never wavered.  Since that fateful day in 1986, Steven dedicated his life to fighting hate and encouraging forgiveness through his actions.  He was a powerful force for all that is good and is an inspiration to all of us.  His, was a life well lived.  We join his family, a true New York City police family, his friends and fellow officers in prayer and mourning the loss of a truly special man.  He was a true American hero."

NYPD Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce:

New York City Fire Department:

Cardinal Timothy Dolan:

"Detective Steven McDonald was an icon of mercy and forgiveness, a prophet of the dignity of all human life, a shining example of the best of what the New York Police Department represents, a loving husband and father, and a fervent and faithful Catholic.

My prayerful condolences to his loving wife Patti Ann, his son Connor, and all of his fellow officers of the NYPD. May he rest in peace."