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 Gary Dean Worthy who died on November 19, 2024 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens. 

On the evening of November 19, NYPD officers responded to a 911 call reporting a robbery in Queens. When officers arrived at the scene, a witness identified Mr. Worthy as the alleged robber. During the ensuing encounter, officers exchanged gunfire with Mr. Worthy. Mr. Worthy was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Officers recovered a gun at the scene. One officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the encounter and was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated and has since been released.

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.