The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has initiated an investigation into the death of a civilian following an encounter with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens on July 4, 2024.
At approximately 5:23 p.m. on July 4, two NYPD officers responded to a reported assault at a residence in Queens. Upon arrival, officers encountered a man wielding a knife who was struggling with another wounded man. The officers ordered the man to drop the knife, but he did not comply. One officer discharged his service weapon, striking the man. The injured individual was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Additionally, officers discovered an injured 8-year-old child in the apartment. The child was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his wounds. Two knives were recovered at the scene.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI evaluates every incident reported where a police officer or peace officer may have caused the death of an individual by act or omission. This assessment applies whether the officer is on-duty or off-duty and regardless of whether the decedent is armed or unarmed, in custody, or incarcerated. If OSI's assessment suggests that an officer may have caused the death, it proceeds with a full investigation.
These facts are preliminary and subject to change.