New York City continues to mourn the loss of NYPD Officer Brian Mulkeen who was shot and killed during a confrontation with a suspect early Sunday morning.

The body of Officer Mulkeen was taken to Smith, Seaman and Quackenbush Funeral Home in Monroe Monday.

People who knew the Fordham University graduate, describe him being a great officer.

The nearly seven-year veteran of the force had plans of returning to Fordham University as a volunteer for the track and field program.

Coach Brian Horowitz says the slain officer was excited to start giving back to his alma mater.

"It's really hard to fathom. I was really excited to work with him again...very hard to comprehend," says Horowitz.

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He graduated in 2008 and had decided to re-join his alma mater as a throwing coach with his former teammate, who is the head coach.

The 33-year-old officer's life was cut short early Sunday morning when he was with his partners in the anti-crime unit in the 47th Precinct patrolling the streets around Edenwald Houses. Police say the team was investigating gang activity and recent shootings in the area.

When the officers began questioning a man, he ran, and they began to chase him. That's when a struggle ensued on the ground between Mulkeen and the suspect. Shortly after, shots were fired and Officer Mulkeen was struck three times.

In body worn camera, the officer can be heard saying, "he's reaching for it." Mulkeen's gun fired five times. A fire arm believed to be the suspect’s was recovered, but it’s said it was not the gun used. 

MORE: 'A true hero': Community mourns death of NYPD officer slain in the Bronx

His partners at the scene fired shots at the suspect who died.

News 12 is told the suspect was Antonio Williams from Binghamton, who had a lengthy criminal record.

Mulkeen was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Along with family members, he leaves behind his girlfriend who is also a police officer. Officials from the department describe Mulkeen as a great police officer with big potential.

"As cops we know how rewarding our profession can be. But I'll tell you, there is absolutely no worse moment on our job than this. As we stand here this morning, a young man with a bright future who courageously patrolled some of New York City's toughest streets has tragically lost his life," says NYPD Chief of Department Terence Monahan.

Mulkeen's funeral services have not yet been announced.