Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Manhattan

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Kent Edwards, who died on December 14, 2023 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Manhattan. 

On the afternoon of December 14, NYPD officers engaged in an active criminal investigation went to a residence on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. After officers entered the apartment, Mr. Edwards shot at them from inside the bathroom, striking an officer’s protective vest. Another officer opened fire in response, striking Mr. Edwards. Mr. Edwards was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The officer who was hit is expected to make a full recovery. Officers found 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 may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident. 

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.