Suicide Suspected in NYPD Detective's Death

A female police detective was found dead in a stairwell at 515 East 88th Street last night. A gun was in Carmen (Lydia) Martinez's lap, and the police believe she killed herself. Martinez did not live in the Upper East Side building, but her boyfriend, retired Deputy Inspector Bil' Bayer, does.

The Daily News reports that the building super's wife found Martienez, after hearing a noise. A neighbor said the super's wife "met the lady in the lobby a few minutes before and said she looked weird." Daily News sources say Martinez had marital problems, while the Post describes her as single.

Martinez, who was recently promoted to first-grade detective, was a 23-year NYPD veteran. She worked in domestic violence and counter terrorism divisions.

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By Jen Chung in News on February 28, 2007 11:31 AM

Comments [rss]

concerned in colorado

Excuse me, but does anyone find her death just a little bit suspiscious? Saw her mentioned in todays' New York Times obituaries; I read the quote, finished by 'Bill'. I assume it could be Bil Bayer(?)?, Retired Deputy Inspector?

After a 30 min search through 'google' there is little newspaper coverage and NO explanation as to why she would commit suicide. Were there any investigations into her death?

The 'after thought' mention of Lydia having 'martial problems' felt like a subliminal excuse used too often in our society to justify no follow up. (Hey, file it under domestic disturbances).

Was C. Lydia Martinez, First Grade promoted NYPD Detective murdered?

NYPD; did you, beyond a resonable doubt, prove she was not?

Honor her and convince me. PLEASE

Bebonyc

Detective Martinez gave a seminar on personal security issues and techniques at my company last month.

She was very impressive....very friendly and full of great ideas on how to stay safe on the street and subways, at home and in the workplace.

Needless to say, we are all shocked by this news....RIP, Detective Martinez....