NY AG OSI Investigates Civilian Death After Police Encounter

NY Attorney General Press Releases

Filed March 9th, 2026

Detected March 10th, 2026

Summary

New York Attorney General's Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of a civilian following an encounter with Buffalo Police Department officers on March 5, 2026. The investigation is conducted under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, which mandates OSI to assess incidents where a police officer may have caused a civilian's death.

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What changed

The New York Attorney General's Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has initiated a full investigation into the death of a civilian in Buffalo, NY, following an encounter with Buffalo Police Department officers on March 5, 2026. The incident involved officers responding to a 911 call, a forced entry into a residence, and the subsequent discharge of a service weapon after the civilian allegedly advanced on an officer while holding knives. This investigation is mandated by New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, which requires OSI to assess all incidents where a police officer may have caused a civilian's death.

This action signifies a substantive regulatory review of law enforcement conduct. While the document states these are preliminary facts, the OSI's involvement indicates a potential for scrutiny of the officers' actions and the department's procedures. Regulated entities, specifically law enforcement agencies in New York, should be aware that such incidents trigger mandatory investigations. While no specific compliance deadline or penalty is mentioned in this press release, the investigation itself represents a significant procedural step that could lead to findings regarding policy adherence or potential disciplinary actions.

What to do next

Review internal policies regarding use of force and de-escalation
Ensure all officers are aware of reporting requirements for critical incidents

Source document (simplified)

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

March 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 March 5, 2026 following an encounter with members of the Buffalo Police Department (BPD) in Buffalo, Erie County.

At 10:55 p.m. on March 5, BPD officers reported to a residence on Minnesota Street in Buffalo in response to a 911 call. At 10:58 p.m., the officers forced entry into a bedroom of the residence and encountered a man who was allegedly holding a knife in each hand. The man allegedly ran toward an officer, holding the knives, and ignored commands to drop them. At least one officer deployed a Taser at the man. The man allegedly still held the knives when one officer discharged their service weapon, striking him. The man was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered two knives from 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.