ASTORIA, NY – A 61-year-old man was shot and killed by police early Monday morning in Astoria, Queens, after allegedly lunging at officers with a knife. The incident unfolded around 6:30 a.m. near the bustling intersection of 30th Avenue and 31st Street, where local businesses were just opening for the day.
Witnesses reported seeing the man carrying a large 14-inch knife, prompting several 911 calls. Peter Monico, a grocery store owner, was among those who alerted authorities, describing the man as visibly distressed and carrying a conspicuous knife.
NYPD officers arrived swiftly, attempting to de-escalate the situation by deploying tasers. However, the tasers reportedly malfunctioned, failing to subdue the man. Witnesses recounted the tense moments when officers repeatedly instructed the man to drop the weapon.
One eyewitness described the man crossing the street, holding the knife in one hand and gesturing with the other, before officers opened fire. The sound of gunfire echoed through the neighborhood, with one witness estimating between eight to ten shots were fired.
The suspect, who has a documented history of mental health issues and prior police encounters, was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. His identity has not yet been disclosed by authorities.
The NYPD is conducting an internal investigation into the incident, focusing on the decision to use lethal force and the malfunction of the tasers. Community members expressed shock and concern over the tragic outcome, emphasizing the need for improved mental health crisis intervention.
As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the incident’s impact, raising questions about police procedures and the support available for individuals in mental distress.