New York Attorney General Letitia James has released police body-worn camera footage as part of the ongoing investigation into the death of Bashe McDaniel, who died on December 29, 2023, following an encounter with members of the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) Police in Queens.
On the evening of December 29, two MTA officers were searching for an individual on Sutphin Boulevard in Queens after receiving a report of an alleged sexual assault. The officers identified Mr. McDaniel, who appeared to match the description provided in the report. During their attempt to handcuff Mr. McDaniel, he fired a gun. In response, the officers discharged their service weapons, striking Mr. McDaniel. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a gun at the scene.
The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) within the Attorney General’s Office released videos from body-worn cameras used by the MTA officers during the incident. This action follows Attorney General James’ directive that camera footage obtained during OSI investigations be made public to enhance transparency and strengthen public trust.
According to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported where a police officer or peace officer may have caused a person's death by act or omission. This includes incidents involving on-duty or off-duty officers and situations where the decedent may be armed or unarmed, in custody or incarcerated. If OSI's assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, it proceeds with a full investigation.
The release of this footage does not express any opinion regarding guilt or innocence in any criminal matter nor does it indicate whether any individual will be charged with a crime.
"Warning: This video contains content that viewers may find disturbing."