NYPD Officer’s Deadly Force Justified in Worthy Shooting

New York – The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) under the New York Attorney General’s office today released its report on the tragic death of Gary Worthy, who succumbed to injuries sustained during an encounter with NYPD officers in Queens on November 19, 2024.

Following a meticulous investigation involving footage reviews and interviews, OSI concluded that a trial prosecutor could not disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer’s use of deadly force was justified under New York law. The incident began when officers responded to reports of a gun-wielding robbery at a smoke shop on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard. Upon identifying Worthy as the suspect, one officer pursued him on foot, leading to an exchange of gunfire.

During the chase, Worthy fired at the officer, hitting both him and a bystander before being struck himself by return fire. Worthy was later pronounced dead in hospital while the officer and the bystander received treatment for their injuries. OSI noted that while the shooting itself was justified, the officers did not render aid to Worthy during the crucial five-minute wait for an ambulance.

OSI acknowledges that prompt medical attention outside of a hospital setting could not have saved Worthy’s life but recommends that NYPD training emphasize aiding all injured parties following police use of force. Current policies require officers to obtain medical attention for injured individuals and render reasonable aid, regardless of the circumstances.

The OSI report concludes with no criminal charges being pursued against the officer involved in the shooting. The release has sparked further debate on police use of deadly force and the responsibilities of law enforcement when dealing with injured parties.

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