The police said that the driver died after a police chase that started in New York City and ended in Long Island. Seven police officers and a civilian were hospitalized.
Patrick Ryder, of the Nassau County Police Department, told reporters that the chase began after New York City officers tried to stop a vehicle in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens shortly after 11 pm on Friday. Ryder said that the driver had attempted to run two police officers over before fleeing.
He claimed that Nassau County officers had at one time boxed in the driver. The driver then hit two police cars and forced them to jump into the way of the vehicle. The vehicle then reversed, turned in the wrong direction, and hit a civilian car.
Ryder stated that the car driver was unable to control the vehicle and stopped it on a berm in Massapequa. Ryder said that officers attempted to convince him to get out of the car, but he refused. He then shot the man dead.
Ryder said the driver was reckless and that his car “flew”.
He said: “He jumped onto the oncoming traffic…he’s hitting civilian cars and police cars ”
Ryder reported five police officers, including two from New York City and the driver, were taken to hospital. Ryder stated that two officers were injured when diving for safety and that three police officers were treated after the shooting.
The driver’s name was not revealed immediately. Ryder confirmed the investigation is being conducted by the Attorney General of the State. Ryder said video footage was being recorded in the city and along highways, as well as on the officers’ bodycams.
