UPDATE: Police officers in Far Rockaway, Queens, shot and killed a man early this morning after he allegedly charged at them wielding a box cutter. The incident occurred at approximately 12:25 a.m. on December 21, 2023, at an apartment building located at 1170 Nameoke St.
According to NYPD Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera, officers from the 101st Precinct were dispatched to the scene following a 911 call reporting a domestic altercation between a father and son. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the parents and entered their apartment to locate the 29-year-old unnamed son, who was not initially found.
As officers and the parents exited the apartment, the son was spotted in the hallway with a box cutter in hand. Chief Rivera reported that officers issued multiple verbal commands urging him to drop the weapon. However, the man did not comply.
“The male was observed in the hallway outside of the apartment with a box cutter in his hand,” Chief Rivera stated. As he charged at the officers, his father retreated behind them for safety. One officer deployed a Taser, but a second officer quickly fired their weapon, striking the suspect.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived shortly after, but the man was pronounced dead at Jamaica Hospital. The responding officers were also evaluated at a local hospital but reported no injuries.
This tragic incident underscores the unpredictable nature of police work, as even routine calls can escalate into life-threatening situations. Chief Rivera emphasized the dangers faced by officers daily, stating,
“This incident once again demonstrates the dangers that our police officers face every day and how a routine call can quickly escalate into an extremely dangerous situation.”
The NYPD’s Force Investigation Division is currently investigating the shooting, which has raised concerns within the community regarding police use of force. Residents are urged to stay informed as the investigation unfolds.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
