The fatal shooting of an upstate New York boy has triggered a wide outcry in the small city of Utica.
During a tense press conference Saturday, Utica Police Chief Mark Williams and the city’s mayor tried to explain what led a six-year veteran cop to shoot and kill a 13-year-old boy.
Williams said the three officers involved in the incident were placed on administrative leave.
Body cam footage of the deadly encounter had also been released; it showed the teen pointing a gun at the officers while they chased him in connection with an armed robbery.
Williams said the teen’s weapon was later determined to be a replica of a Glock 17 Gen 5 handgun with a detachable magazine.
The fake gun was “in all aspects a realistic appearing firearm with GLOCK markings, signatures, detachable magazine, and serial numbers,” Lt. Michael Curley added.
“However, ultimately, it fires only pellets or BBs.”
Office Patrick Husnay fired the fatal shot while his colleague, Bryce Patterson, struggled on the ground with the juvenile suspect.
The juvenile was shot in the chest and died at Wynn Hospital despite receiving “immediate” first aid at the chaotic scene, Williams said.
“I want to offer my heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased party during this difficult time,” he said.
“This is a tragic and traumatic incident for all involved.”
