A tragic incident unfolded in Utica, New York, on Friday night when a 13-year-old boy, Nyah Mway, was shot and killed by police officers. The officers reported that Nyah fled and pointed a replica handgun at them, leading to the fatal confrontation.
The encounter began when three officers approached Nyah and another 13-year-old who matched the descriptions of robbery suspects in the area. The police were patrolling to assist with recent robbery investigations involving suspects described as Asian males brandishing a black firearm and stealing property from victims.
According to the Utica Police Department, Nyah Mway and the other juvenile were in the vicinity of a previous robbery and were stopped as they matched the suspects' descriptions. Nyah was also found to be violating New York vehicle and traffic laws by walking in the roadway.
Bodycam footage revealed that when officers attempted to conduct a stop and pat-frisk the juveniles, Nyah immediately fled on foot. During the pursuit, he pulled out what appeared to be a handgun but was later confirmed to be a replica GLOCK pellet gun, which he pointed at the officers.
One of the officers discharged his firearm, striking Nyah in the chest during a struggle. Despite receiving immediate first aid, Nyah succumbed to his injuries at Wynn Hospital. The officers involved have been identified as Patrick Husnay, Bryce Patterson, and Andrew Citriniti, with Husnay being the one who fired the fatal shot.
The release of body camera footage depicting the incident has sparked outrage in the community, with many questioning the use of force against a 13-year-old carrying a replica gun. The footage shows a chaotic scene where Nyah points the replica handgun at the officers while fleeing, leading to the fatal shot being fired.
The shooting has prompted two investigations, one by the New York State Attorney General and another by the Utica Police Department's Professional Standards. The incident has deeply affected the community, with tensions running high during a news conference where audience members expressed their emotions and demanded transparency from the authorities.
As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of Nyah Mway, a refugee born in Myanmar and a member of the Karen ethnic minority. Calls for justice and accountability echo through the city of Utica as residents grapple with the tragic outcome of a routine police encounter.
A small group has staged a protest outside the Utica Police station, demanding 'Justice for Nyah Mway. Forever 13,' as the community seeks answers and closure in the wake of this heartbreaking incident.
