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

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Alex Rivera, who died on May 31, 2023 following an encounter with members of the Syracuse Police Department (SPD).

In the early morning hours of May 31, SPD officers responded to a 911 call regarding an individual acting erratically at a residence located at 611 Teall Avenue. When officers arrived, they encountered Mr. Rivera, who seemed unable to stand or walk. Officers brought Mr. Rivera outside without incident, where he was sedated by paramedics before being put into an ambulance. Mr. Rivera was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

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.