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

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Amir Mahmoud Hamza, who died on September 14, 2026 following an encounter with members of the New York State Police (NYSP) in Cairo, Greene County.

Shortly after 8:30 p.m. on September 14, NYSP troopers arrived at a campground in Cairo following a 911 call. At 8:42 p.m., Mr. Hamza allegedly came out of a camper with what appeared to be a handgun and moved toward one of the troopers. Troopers ordered Mr. Hamza to drop the weapon. Mr. Hamza allegedly kept moving toward one trooper and did not drop the weapon. One trooper discharged their service weapon, striking Mr. Hamza. Mr. Hamza was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers recovered a black BB 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.