NYPD Fatally Shoots Man Wielding Box Cutter in Far Rockaway, Queens
A domestic dispute in Far Rockaway, Queens, culminated in a police-involved shooting early on Sunday morning. This incident involved a 29-year-old man wielding a box cutter and resulted in his death after interaction with NYPD officers.
NYPD Responds to Domestic Call
The NYPD received a call at 12:25 a.m. regarding a man armed with a box cutter at 11870 Nameoke Street. Upon arrival, officers encountered the man’s parents, who were outside the building. Together, they searched the apartment but did not find the individual.
Confrontation Escalates
As the group exited the apartment, the suspect was located in the hallway holding the weapon. Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera reported that a physical struggle ensued between the man and his father. Despite officers’ attempts to de-escalate the situation by issuing commands to drop the weapon, the suspect did not comply.
- The father retreated behind the officers.
- The suspect charged at the police.
- One officer used a Taser on the man.
- Another officer discharged a firearm, striking the suspect.
Immediate Aftermath and Investigation
Following the shooting, officers administered first aid, including CPR, until EMS arrived. The man was transported to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The involved officers were assessed at a local hospital for their own safety.
The entire event was recorded on body-worn cameras, providing critical evidence for the ongoing investigation by the Force Investigations Division. The box cutter used by the suspect was recovered at the scene.
Chief Rivera highlighted the daily risks faced by law enforcement, stating, “This incident demonstrates how quickly routine calls can escalate into dangerous circumstances.”