Recently released bodycam footage from the Buffalo Police Department in New York has captured a dramatic and tragic incident involving Officer Ronald Ammerman and a fleeing suspect. The video shows Officer Ammerman pulling over 25-year-old Dae’von Roberts for speeding, only for Roberts to attempt to escape by speeding away with Ammerman clinging to the car.
During the intense encounter, Officer Ammerman is heard pleading with Roberts to stop, expressing fear for his life as a 6-year-old child screams in terror from the passenger seat. As the car accelerates, Ammerman fires several shots before both he and Roberts fall to the ground.
Following the incident, Officer Ammerman quickly checks on the uninjured child in the car and calls for backup. Unfortunately, Roberts was pronounced dead at a local hospital, with a firearm later discovered inside the vehicle.
Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia defended Officer Ammerman's actions, stating that the use of force was justified given the imminent danger faced by the officer. Gramaglia emphasized the unpredictable nature of real-life situations and commended the professionalism displayed by the officers prior to the escalation.
The encounter began with a routine traffic stop, during which Officer Ammerman discovered discrepancies in Roberts' identification. Despite initial cooperation from Roberts, the situation quickly escalated when Roberts attempted to flee, leading to the tragic outcome.
It was revealed that Roberts had prior legal issues, including charges related to a shots-fired incident at a memorial for his half-brother. Despite being indicted and released under supervision earlier, Roberts' actions ultimately resulted in a fatal confrontation with law enforcement.
Both Officer Ammerman and his colleague, Officer Jonathan Crawford, have been placed on administrative leave following the incident, allowing them time to process the traumatic events that unfolded. The Buffalo Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting as the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event.