State's Lawyer Investigating Police Shooting of Teenager Who Reportedly Had Fake Gun

New York State Attorney General Letitia James has announced a thorough investigation into the tragic shooting of 13-year-old Nyah Mway by Utica police officers. The incident, which occurred late Friday night, has stirred significant community outcry and calls for transparency.

According to reports from the Utica Police Department, officers from the Crime Prevention Unit were conducting a routine stop as part of an undisclosed investigation when they encountered Mway and another individual. Allegedly, Mway attempted to flee from the officers, prompting a chase.

During the pursuit, Myanmar reportedly brandished what appeared to be a Glock 17 Gen 5 handgun, later identified as a replica BB gun, and pointed it at the officers. In response, Officer Patrick Husnay, a 6-year veteran of the Utica Police Department, fired a single shot, fatally striking the juvenile.

The aftermath of the shooting has seen an outpouring of grief and demands for accountability from Mway’s family and the local community. Hundreds gathered for a solemn vigil in the 900 block of Shaw Street, where emotional tributes were paid to the young victim, described by his uncle Lay Htoo as a “very good kid” who had recently graduated from middle school.

In a press conference, Utica Police Chief Mark Williams and Mayor Michael P. Galime addressed the incident, pledging transparency in the investigation process. Body camera footage from Officer Bryce Patterson has been released to the public, showing the moments leading up to the tragic shooting. The footage reportedly captures Mway fleeing from officers and pulling out the replica firearm, which he allegedly aimed at Officer Patterson and other officers.

As per state protocol, the New York State Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigations will now oversee the case to determine whether the officers’ actions violated any laws. Meanwhile, the Utica Police Department has placed the officers on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Community leaders and advocates are emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mway’s death, highlighting concerns over police use of force and the safety protocols governing such encounters. The incident has reignited debates over police accountability and the handling of potentially life-threatening situations involving minors.

Also Read:

As the investigation unfolds, local authorities and state officials are urging the public to remain calm and patient and promising to keep the community informed of any developments in this sensitive case.