New York Attorney General Letitia James has released footage related to the death of Dmitry Zass, who died following an interaction with NYPD officers on January 8. The release includes security camera recordings and body-worn camera footage from the officers involved, according to the Attorney General’s office.
The videos show events occurring late at night after police were called to a car involved in a traffic incident. When officers approached the vehicle, Zass exited and appeared to point a gun at them. Officers discharged their weapons, striking Zass, who was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. A pellet pistol was subsequently recovered at the scene.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, the Office of Special Investigation (OSI) is tasked with reviewing incidents involving law enforcement officers that result in civilian deaths, regardless of whether the officers were on or off duty or whether the deceased was armed. If OSI determines that an officer may have caused the death, it conducts a full investigation.
The release of the footage does not reflect any position on the guilt or innocence of those involved, nor does it indicate any potential criminal charges. The videos, which contain graphic content, are intended to provide transparency, and viewers are warned that the material may be distressing.
.jpg){kind=link}