Man Dies After NYPD Pursuit: AG Launches Probe

NEW YORK – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) is digging into the death of Shelton Ennis, 33, following a chaotic encounter with New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers in Manhattan. The incident, occurring June 26, 2025, initially prompted a preliminary assessment, but new information has escalated the case to a full-blown investigation, the AG’s office announced December 31, 2025.

According to the initial report, NYPD officers engaged with Ennis around 9:52 p.m. near 137th Street and Riverside Drive. What began as an interaction quickly devolved into a foot pursuit as Ennis allegedly fled from the officers. The chase ended with an officer apprehending Ennis, during which both men fell to the ground. Paramedics rushed Ennis to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A knife was recovered at the scene, raising questions about the circumstances leading up to the physical altercation. While details remain scarce, the presence of a weapon adds a layer of complexity to the investigation. OSI is mandated by New York State Executive Law Section 70-b to assess every reported incident where a law enforcement officer *may* have caused a civilian’s death – whether on or off duty, armed or unarmed, in custody or not.

“We are committed to a thorough and impartial investigation into the death of Shelton Ennis,” a statement from the Attorney General’s office read. “Our office will pursue all available evidence to determine the facts surrounding this incident and ensure accountability.” The OSI’s involvement signals a heightened level of scrutiny, independent of the NYPD’s internal review processes.

This case comes amidst ongoing national debate about police use of force and accountability. The OSI investigation will likely examine the officers’ justification for engaging with Ennis, the legality of the pursuit, and the force used during the apprehension. The office emphasized that these are preliminary facts and are subject to change as the investigation progresses.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this developing story, providing updates as they become available. The death of Shelton Ennis adds to a growing list of incidents prompting calls for greater transparency and oversight of law enforcement actions in New York City. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details were released at press time.

RELATED: Manhattan ‘Slug’ Indicted in Deadly Fentanyl Overdose

RELATED: Man Dies in NYPD Encounter, AG James Investigates