Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Suffolk County

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Emilson Joan Ordoñez-Banegas, who died on July 13, 2025 following an encounter with members of the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) in Centereach, Suffolk County.

Shortly after 8:30 a.m. on July 13, SCPD officers responded to a 911 call reporting an assault with a knife behind retail stores in Centereach, Suffolk County. When officers arrived on scene, they encountered an individual with lacerations to his hand and neck. While EMTs rendered aid to the injured individual, Mr. Ordoñez-Banegas allegedly advanced toward the injured individual with what appeared to be a knife in his hand. One officer discharged his service weapon, striking Mr. Ordoñez-Banegas. Mr. Ordoñez-Banegas was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a knife 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.