Beloved Former NYPD Detective and Adaptive Hockey Coach Takes His Own Life

A retired NYPD detective, known for his dedicated service response to 9/11 and his passion for coaching adaptive hockey, tragically passed away last week by suicide, leaving a void in his community and among his loved ones.

Peter Gianatiempo, who served 26 years on the force—including 19 in the Organized Crime Control Bureau—died from a self-inflicted gunshot at his home, shortly before he was scheduled to return to coaching in an adaptive hockey league. He was 61 years old.

Peter Gianatiempo with his family at a soccer game

Gianatiempo with his wife Dawn, son Peter, and daughter Nicole at a soccer game.

His wife, Dawn, shared that her husband took great pride in his police work but suffered from PTSD, especially after responding to the 9/11 attacks. She recalled his unwavering commitment, even years later, as he battled ongoing trauma.

Raised in Woodside, Queens, Gianatiempo graduated from Monsignor McClancy High School in 1982, where he played soccer. He married Dawn in 1992, and they raised two children: Nicole and Peter. After retiring, he worked security and coached youth hockey programs, demonstrating a deep love for the sport and community service.

His coaching passion was rooted in his children’s involvement and his desire to support individuals with special needs. In 2021, the New York Rangers highlighted his work with a young girl facing personal challenges, recognizing his dedication to inclusive sports.

Gianatiempo, who lived in Cortlandt Manor, spent his retirement working security and coaching adaptive hockey teams.

Last year, Gianatiempo began coaching for the Danbury Hat Tricks and the Northern Bravehearts, an adaptive hockey program. His efforts aimed at expanding the sport to include youth representation at national tournaments. His dedication earned praise from the community and teammates.

Following his death, the hockey community expressed deep sorrow. A tribute at the Danbury Arena’s “Ultimate Goalie Showdown” included a moment of silence in his memory. His funeral is scheduled for Tuesday in Westchester.

His friends remembered him as humorous, warm, and always committed to helping others, with plans for charity games and memorials honoring his legacy. His wife and family are left mourning a man who loved his service, sport, and community profoundly.