Sheila abdus salaam a trailblazing judge found dead in hudson river #

Sheila Abdus-Salaam was a trailblazing judge who made history as the first African American woman to serve on the New York State Court of Appeals. She was found dead on April 12, 2017, in the Hudson River in New York City.

Abdus-Salaam, 65, was a highly respected jurist who served on the Court of Appeals, the highest court in New York State, from 2013 until her death. She was known for her expertise in family law and her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the judiciary.

Born in 1950 in Washington, D.C., Abdus-Salaam grew up in Harlem and graduated from Barnard College and Columbia Law School. She began her legal career as a prosecutor in the Manhattan District Attorney's office and later became a judge in the New York State Supreme Court.

Abdus-Salaam's appointment to the Court of Appeals in 2013 was a significant milestone, as she became the first African American woman to serve on the court. She was also the first Muslim woman to serve on the court.

The circumstances of Abdus-Salaam's death were unclear, and an investigation was launched by the New York City Police Department. Her body was found floating in the Hudson River near the George Washington Bridge, and authorities initially believed that she may have jumped from the bridge.

However, an autopsy later revealed that Abdus-Salaam's death was not a suicide, and the cause of death was determined to be undetermined. The investigation into her death remains ongoing.

Abdus-Salaam's death was met with widespread shock and sadness, and she was remembered by colleagues and friends as a trailblazing jurist who was dedicated to promoting justice and equality. Her legacy continues to inspire and motivate others to pursue careers in law and public service.