Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation Into Civilian Death in Otsego County

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Mark Beilby, who died on December 22, 2021, following an encounter with a member of the New York State Police (NYSP).

On the evening of December 22, a member of NYSP responded to a call from 3 Lyons Street in the village of Unadilla. When the officer arrived at the residence, the officer started talking to Mr. Beilby, who appeared to be holding a knife. At some point after communication began, the officer fired at Mr. Beilby. Mr. Beilby was taken to the Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City and pronounced dead at 11:05 pm. Officials recovered two knives 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.