Attorney general's office of special investigation opens investigation into civilian death in Buffalo

The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation has opened an investigation into the death of a civilian who died on Saturday, following an encounter with a member of the New York State Police (NYSP).

The AG’s office stated that, on the morning of Feb. 12, members of the NYSP pursued a speeding car on a highway near the City of Buffalo. A short time later, an NYSP trooper in Buffalo spotted the same car. The trooper approached the car and, during an interaction with the driver, opened fire. The driver was later pronounced dead 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 caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident. 

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.