Police vehicle crashes in Bronx; 1 officer killed

HUNTS POINT (WABC) -- For three short months, Michael Williams lived his dream - working as an NYPD officer. On Sunday morning, the 25-year-old was killed when an NYPD vehicle crashed in the Bronx. Fellow officers saluted Williams as he was taken out of Lincoln Hospital blanketed in the NYPD flag.

"Michael's father, as a cop for 32 years, has probably seen it all, but never expected to see anything like this involving his own son," said NYPD Commissioner William Bratton.

Michael's parents, Michael and Joanne, trailed behind their son's body and watched their only child, who back in January couldn't wait to finish the Police Academy, and join the other offiecers at the 47th Precinct.

Both Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Police Commissioner spoke at Williams' graduation.

"He was a part of that team that was turning things around, and I know that was a source of pride," said Mayor de Blasio.

Around 5 Sunday morning, Williams was one of nine officers riding in a police van. He was heading to the UN, and was part of the detail for the upcoming General Assembly.

Officials say the vehicle, headed westbound on Bruckner Boulevard, changed lanes and for some reason, the 2009 Ford collided with the barrier and skidded about 90 feet. Williams, who was sitting in the last row on the right side, was ejected and suffered severe trauma to his body.

"If you're coming really fast on that turn, you could lose control in a minute," says eyewitness William Soto.

Williams was one of the NYPD's finest and youngest.

"This takes a heavy, heavy toll - we know we lose officers on duty, they are shot, but this impacts us as much, or more," say NYPD Chief Philip Banks.

Investigators are trying to determine if weather was a factor in the crash.