Recently released bodycam footage reveals a tragic incident in New York City where police officers fired their guns at a man who had called 911 during a mental health crisis. The man, Win Rozario, was shot in his family's home in Queens as his mother and younger brother pleaded with officers not to shoot.
Rozario's family is calling for the officers involved to be fired and charged with murder after viewing the disturbing footage. The family insists that the police officers showed a lack of care and created a crisis that led to Rozario's death.
Attorney General Letitia James released the bodycam videos as part of an investigation into the fatal encounter that occurred on March 27. The footage shows officers Salvatore Alongi and Matthew Cianfrocco responding to a call at the Rozario residence.
Upon arrival, the officers were informed by Rozario's younger brother that his sibling was experiencing a mental health episode. As the officers entered the home, Rozario grabbed a pair of scissors from a drawer and advanced towards them. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, the encounter quickly turned violent.
Police commanders initially stated that the officers had no choice but to shoot Rozario when he approached them with the scissors. However, the bodycam footage reveals a more complex sequence of events, with Rozario's family members imploring the officers not to use lethal force.
As the situation escalated, officers deployed Tasers multiple times, and eventually, one officer fired a handgun at Rozario. The family's pleas for restraint went unheeded, leading to Rozario being shot multiple times and ultimately falling to the floor.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has stated that it is cooperating with the investigation, and the officers involved are currently on modified assignment. Chief of Patrol John Chell defended the officers' actions, citing the chaotic and fast-moving nature of the incident.
Rozario's family continues to mourn his loss, emphasizing the impact of his absence on their daily lives. The release of the bodycam footage has sparked outrage and renewed calls for police accountability in cases involving mental health crises.
