The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) announced on April 7 that it has opened an investigation into the death of Lucien Colon, who died following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department in the Bronx.
Colon died on April 2 after police officers entered his apartment to arrest him. According to preliminary information, officers encountered Colon in a bedroom where he reportedly said he had a gun. The door was open, and Colon allegedly raised what appeared to be a gun at officers. One officer fired his service weapon, striking Colon. He was transported to a local hospital and pronounced dead. Officers recovered an object resembling a gun at the scene.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI reviews every incident reported where a police or peace officer may have caused someone’s death by action or omission. This includes cases involving both armed and unarmed individuals, whether or not they are in custody or incarcerated. If OSI determines there is reason to believe an officer may have caused the death, it conducts a full investigation.
These facts remain preliminary and could change as the investigation continues.
The New York Attorney General promotes social justice and community well-being through civil rights enforcement and consumer advocacy, according to the official website. The agency also protects New Yorkers by ensuring public safety, defending civil rights, upholding consumer protections and preserving the environment according to its official website. Letitia James heads the office according to its official website.
The Attorney General operates through regional offices across New York State to address local legal issues according to its official website, providing services such as consumer fraud investigations, charities oversight and tenant dispute mediation according to its official website. It functions as a public law enforcement and legal advocacy agency for residents of New York according to its official website.
