Allan Hoad Death Report: No Charges for Officers

New York – The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) under Attorney General Letitia James has released its findings on the tragic death of Allan Hoad, who met his end after a violent confrontation with law enforcement in October 2024. After an exhaustive probe including body camera footage and witness interviews, OSI concluded that the officers involved were justified in their use of force.

On October 21, 2024, Steuben County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) deputies responded to a welfare check for Mr. Hoad at his residence on Angel Road. The encounter quickly escalated when Hoad opened fire with a shotgun, prompting a tense 13-hour standoff. Throughout the incident, Hoad made chilling threats of violence against police and others.

By midday, Hoad took his truck to Swale Road where he attempted to flee officers, crashing into a patrol car after pointing what appeared to be a handgun at them. The officers opened fire, ultimately ending the threat when Hoad was struck and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Authorities recovered a shotgun and three imitation handguns from his vehicle.

Under New York law, an officer can use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend against another’s use of deadly force. The OSI determined that given the circumstances, including Hoad firing upon officers and threatening them with further violence, no charges would be filed against the officers involved.

The report notes that while the outcome was tragic, the use of deadly physical force by the officers was found to be justified under the law. OSI emphasized the complexity of such situations and the difficult decisions faced by law enforcement during emergencies.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by police every day and underscores the thoroughness required in investigating such incidents.