Bemis Gunfight: AG Releases Sheriff’s Bodycam Footage

NEW YORK – The scene unfolded quickly, violently, and is now laid bare for public consumption. New York Attorney General Letitia James today released body-worn camera footage documenting the June 18, 2025, shooting death of Mark Bemis in Chautauqua County. The footage, obtained as part of an ongoing investigation, reveals a tense standoff between Bemis and deputies from the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), culminating in a hail of gunfire and Bemis’s death.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, CCSO deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic incident at a residence in Mina, New York, on the afternoon of June 18th. Upon arrival, they encountered Mark Bemis standing outside the house, near an open garage, armed with a long gun. The situation escalated rapidly, and an exchange of gunfire ensued. Bemis was struck by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene. A shotgun was recovered by deputies.

The release of the bodycam footage is a direct result of Attorney General James’ push for increased transparency in investigations involving potential police misconduct. The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) within the Attorney General’s Office is mandated under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b to assess every incident where a law enforcement officer’s actions may have resulted in a death. This includes on-duty and off-duty officers, armed and unarmed subjects, and regardless of custody status.

“OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer…may have caused the death of a person,” a statement from the AG’s office reads. “If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.” The Attorney General’s Office was careful to state that the release of the footage is *not* an indication of guilt or innocence for any party involved, nor does it suggest any impending charges.

Grimy Times has reviewed the initial footage, which is graphic and disturbing. The video shows deputies approaching the residence with weapons drawn, followed by a brief but intense confrontation with Bemis before shots are fired. The full footage is available on the Attorney General’s website, but viewers are warned it contains potentially upsetting content. The investigation remains ongoing, and the CCSO has not yet released a public statement regarding the shooting.

The incident raises familiar questions about the use of force by law enforcement and the delicate balance between public safety and individual rights. While the Attorney General’s Office emphasizes the importance of transparency, the ultimate determination of whether any wrongdoing occurred remains to be seen. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. The identity of the deputies involved has not yet been released.