New York AG’s OSI Probes Death of Shelton Ennis Following NYPD Encounter

New York – The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) under New York Attorney General Letitia James has launched a formal investigation into the death of Shelton Ennis, who succumbed to injuries following an altercation with NYPD officers in Manhattan. The OSI had been conducting a preliminary review before escalating the matter to a full-blown investigation after obtaining fresh evidence.

On June 26, 2025, at around 9:52 p.m., officers from the NYPD engaged with Mr. Ennis near 137th Street and Riverside Drive. After a pursuit on foot, an officer apprehended Mr. Ennis, who subsequently fell to the ground alongside the officer. The civilian was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead. A knife was recovered at the scene of the incident.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI is mandated to review every reported incident involving potential police or peace officer-related deaths. This law encompasses both on-duty and off-duty officers, regardless of whether the decedent is armed or not, and irrespective of their custody status. If OSI finds that an officer may have caused a death, it proceeds with a comprehensive investigation.

These are preliminary findings and may be subject to change as the investigation unfolds. The OSI’s probe aims to get to the bottom of this tragic incident, which has sparked community concern over police use of force in the city.

The case has become a focal point for discussions on law enforcement accountability and transparency. As the public awaits further details from the OSI’s investigation, the death of Shelton Ennis remains a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding police-civilian interactions.

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