Utica, New York – In a tragic incident that has shaken the community of Utica, a 13-year-old boy was fatally shot by a police officer after being tackled to the ground. The incident occurred late Friday night as officers were responding to an armed robbery investigation in the area. The two 13-year-olds, who matched the description of the suspects, were stopped, leading to a confrontation that ended in tragedy.
Body camera footage released by the police shows the moment when one of the teenagers, identified as Nyah Mway, fled from the officers and allegedly pointed a replica handgun at them. The officers, believing it to be a real firearm, opened fire, striking the boy in the chest. Despite receiving immediate first aid and being rushed to Wynn Hospital, the teenager succumbed to his injuries.
The replica gun carried by the teen, while appearing realistic, was later confirmed to be a non-lethal weapon that fires pellets or BB’s. The officers involved in the incident, including the one who fired the fatal shot, have been placed on administrative leave as investigations into the shooting are ongoing.
Nyah Mway, a refugee born in Myanmar and a member of the Karen ethnic minority, was an 8th grader at Donovan Middle School. The incident has reignited debates about police use of force and has drawn attention to the challenges faced by refugees in the community. The shooting has raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the tragic event and has sparked calls for accountability and transparency from law enforcement.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, both internal and external investigations are being conducted to determine the justification of the officer’s actions. While the police chief expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, the community remains on edge as they seek answers and justice for Nyah Mway. The incident has underscored the need for greater dialogue and understanding between law enforcement and marginalized communities to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The shooting has sparked outrage and demands for justice, as residents and community leaders call for a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Nyah Mway’s death. The tragedy has highlighted the complexities of policing in diverse communities and the challenges of addressing systemic issues that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. As the investigation continues, the community stands united in seeking accountability and justice for Nyah Mway.