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

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Raul Hardy, who died on July 9, 2022, following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD).

On the evening of July 9, an individual placed multiple threatening calls to 911 and members of the NYPD were dispatched to the individual’s house. When officers arrived at the residence in Saint Albans, Queens, they encountered Mr. Hardy outside the residence. Officers instructed Mr. Hardy to show his hands, but Mr. Hardy did not comply and allegedly pointed a gun at the officers. Gunfire was then exchanged, and Mr. Hardy was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a gun 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.