Utica, New York – Police officers in Utica, New York responded to a call regarding two teenagers matching the description of suspects involved in recent robberies. The situation escalated when 13-year-old Nyah Mway ran from the officers while carrying what appeared to be a handgun. Amid the chaos, an officer fired a single shot that tragically struck Mway in the chest, ultimately leading to his death at Wynn Hospital.
In the aftermath of the incident, body camera footage was released by the police, showing Mway gesturing towards the officers with what was later determined to be a replica weapon. Outraged members of the community confronted the police chief during a press conference, highlighting the tension and emotions surrounding the tragic event.
The footage captured the officers shouting “gun!” at each other as they believed Mway was armed with a real handgun. However, further investigation revealed that the weapon was a replica of a Glock 17, capable of only firing pellets or BB’s. The officers involved in the shooting were identified as Patrick Husnay, Bryce Patterson, and Andrew Citriniti, all of whom have been placed on administrative leave pending investigations.
The shooting has sparked inquiries from both the New York attorney general’s office and the Utica police department, as the community grapples with the loss of a young life. Mayor Michael Galime appealed for calm, emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding of the incident and its implications. The tragic events have reignited conversations about police procedures and the use of force in such encounters, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.