NY AG: No Charges in Death of Donnell Hogan

New York – A stunning revelation has emerged from the New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) regarding the tragic death of Donnell Hogan. The OSI announced today that a prosecutor would not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the Syracuse Police Department’s (SPD) use of deadly force against Hogan was justified, paving the way for no charges to be filed.

The incident unfolded on May 13, 2025, when SPD officers responded to reports of gunshots fired inside a Syracuse apartment building. Upon arrival, they were met with chaos as Mr. Hogan, confined to a wheelchair, faced them armed with a firearm. In the violent confrontation that ensued, Hogan was struck down by police gunfire.

Video footage from officers’ body-worn cameras revealed the harrowing moment when Hogan raised his weapon and opened fire. The OSI’s assessment, however, concluded that the officer who fired the fatal shot could not be proven to have acted unlawfully in the heat of the moment.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI is required to investigate any incident where an officer may have caused a death. The findings of this investigation are a stark reminder of the delicate balance between law enforcement’s duty to protect and the rights of individuals they encounter.

While the family of Donnell Hogan seeks answers, the OSI has stated that a final Investigation Report will follow at a later date. This case serves as a somber testament to the complexities surrounding police use of force and the legal processes that guide these investigations.

RELATED: NY AG: St. Clare’s Hospital Leadership Faces Trial for Pension Fraud