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

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Andre Joseph Mayfield, who died on May 26, 2024 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Brooklyn.

At approximately 2:20 a.m. on May 26, two NYPD officers were in a marked patrol vehicle at the intersection of Central Avenue and Eldert Street in Brooklyn after responding to a previous unrelated call. When the officers exited the patrol vehicle, they encountered Mr. Mayfield, who was standing near the patrol vehicle and holding a knife. The officers deployed a taser, which caused Mr. Mayfield to fall. Mr. Mayfield stood up and approached the officers with the knife. The officers discharged their firearms, striking Mr. Mayfield. Mr. Mayfield was transported to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Officers 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 may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident. 

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.