Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Suffolk County

May 11, 2026

NEW YORK - The New York Attorney General's Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Steven Eastwood, who died on May 10, 2026 following an encounter with members of the Southampton Town Police Department (STPD) in Southampton, Suffolk County.

Shortly before 3 p.m. on May 10, STPD officers responded to a house in Southampton where they encountered Mr. Eastwood, who was allegedly stabbing his mother with a knife. Officers repeatedly directed Mr. Eastwood to drop the knife, but he failed to comply. Two officers discharged their service weapons, striking Mr. Eastwood. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers recovered several knives at the scene.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI's assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.