Bernard Kerik Head of NYC Police During 9/11, Passes on at 69

Bernard Kerik, the former New York City police commissioner who led the NYPD during the 9/11 attacks, has died at the age of 69. His death, following a private battle with illness, was confirmed on Thursday by FBI Director Kash Patel.

Kerik played a central role in coordinating the police response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks—the deadliest in U.S. history. His leadership during that time earned him national recognition and led to his appointment by then-President George W. Bush to oversee a provisional police force in Iraq.

Throughout his career, Kerik rose from the ranks of law enforcement, serving as an army veteran and becoming a highly decorated officer. In 2004, he was nominated to lead the Department of Homeland Security, but withdrew amid growing scrutiny over his personal and financial affairs.

In 2009, Kerik pleaded guilty to federal charges of tax fraud and making false statements, related to unreported interest-free loans from an Israeli billionaire and a New York real estate developer while serving in office. He served three years in federal prison before receiving a full pardon from President Donald Trump in 2020.

Following his release, Kerik became involved in efforts to support Trump’s attempts to challenge the 2020 election results, working alongside former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. Giuliani, who appointed Kerik as NYPD commissioner during his mayoralty, paid tribute to his longtime friend on Thursday. “We’ve been together since the beginning. He’s like my brother,” Giuliani said. “I was a better man for having known Bernie. I certainly was a braver and stronger man.”

New York City’s current mayor, Eric Adams, who shared a nearly 30-year friendship with Kerik, also honored his memory. “He was with his loved ones who are in my prayers tonight,” Adams said in a statement. “He was a great New Yorker and American.”