(WNY News Now) – The New York Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation into the death of a civilian following an encounter with officers from the Buffalo Police Department late Wednesday night.
The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has launched an investigation into the death of a civilian who died after an encounter with members of the Buffalo Police Department in Buffalo, Erie County.
According to the office of Letitia James, the incident occurred on March 5, 2026. At approximately 10:55 p.m., Buffalo police officers responded to a residence on Minnesota Street following a 911 call.
Authorities said that at about 10:58 p.m., officers forced entry into a bedroom inside the home. Upon entering, officers encountered a man who was allegedly holding a knife in each hand.
Investigators said the man allegedly ran toward one of the officers while still holding the knives and ignored commands to drop the weapons. During the encounter, at least one officer deployed a Taser. Officials said the man continued to hold the knives, at which point one officer discharged their service weapon, striking him.
The man was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Police reported recovering two knives from the scene.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, the Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation reviews incidents where a police officer or peace officer may have caused a civilian’s death through an act or omission. The law requires OSI to assess cases regardless of whether the officer was on or off duty, whether the person was armed or unarmed, and whether the individual was in custody at the time.
If OSI determines that an officer may have caused the death, the office proceeds with a full investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
Officials emphasized that the information released so far is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation continues.
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