New York Attorney General Letitia James released police body-worn camera footage obtained during the investigation into the death of Albert Melendez, Jr., who died on July 16, 2024, following an encounter with members of the New York State Police (NYSP) in Sullivan County.
In the early morning hours of July 16, NYSP troopers were pursuing Mr. Melendez, Jr., who was driving his vehicle on Rock Hill Drive in Rock Hill, Sullivan County. At the intersection of Rock Hill Drive and Emerald Place, Mr. Melendez, Jr. stopped his vehicle. A trooper exited his patrol vehicle and approached Mr. Melendez, Jr. During the ensuing encounter, the trooper discharged his service weapon, striking Mr. Melendez, Jr. He was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the encounter and was treated at a local hospital before being released.
The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) within the Attorney General’s Office released videos from body-worn cameras that NYSP officers used during the incident. This release follows Attorney General James’ directive to make camera footage obtained by her office public to increase transparency and strengthen public trust.
Pursuant 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. The law covers both on-duty and off-duty officers and includes scenarios where the decedent may be armed or unarmed and either in custody or not 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 or how or whether any individual may be charged with a crime.
"Warning: This video contains content that viewers may find disturbing."