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

January 9, 2026

NEW YORK - The New York Attorney General's Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of a civilian who died on January 8, 2026 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Manhattan.

At approximately 10:52 p.m., a man flagged down NYPD officers and pointed out a car stopped in traffic that had allegedly been involved in a motor vehicle collision. As the NYPD officers approached the stopped car, the driver got out of the car and allegedly pointed what appeared to be a gun at the officers. Officers discharged their service weapons, striking the man. The man was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A pellet pistol was recovered 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.