“Rochester Police Release Body Cam Video of Officer Fatally Shooting Suspect Todd Novick”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Rochester Police Share Body Worn Video of Officer-Involved Shooting Incident

Rochester Police have recently released the body worn video of an officer involved in an incident that occurred on Sunday, where the officer fatally shot a suspect who was believed to be armed. Chief David Smith presented the video during a news conference on Wednesday, shedding light on the beginning of the incident that unfolded on Murray Street at around 8:30 a.m.

The incident began when the Rochester Police Department (RPD) responded to a report from a 911 caller, who claimed that a man with a gun was present in the vicinity. As the officer questioned the individual, later identified as Todd Novick, a 46-year-old city resident, he suddenly fled the scene on foot. During the subsequent chase, Novick brandished what appeared to be a handgun, which was later discovered to be a replica.

Chief Smith stated, “Under our general orders and New York state penal law, officers are justified to use deadly physical force in defense of themselves or others. As I said on Sunday, preliminarily, it appears to me that the officer was in line with those regulations.” Consequently, Novick was shot while attempting to escape, still holding the replica gun. The video evidence clearly shows that Novick only dropped the weapon after the officer had fired at him.

Smith emphasized that numerous questions remain unanswered, including the motives behind Novick carrying a replica gun and his decision to flee from the officer. The officer involved in the shooting, along with another officer, has been placed on administrative leave pending further investigation.

The RPD’s internal affairs division, as well as the New York State Attorney General’s office, are conducting separate investigations into the incident. Additionally, the Rochester Police Accountability Board is also conducting an independent investigation.

Mayor Malik Evans expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased and acknowledged the absence of any additional injuries resulting from the incident. He further stated, “I am grateful to the men and women in law enforcement for their efforts to keep our community safe.” The mayor assured that the city is actively cooperating with the attorney general’s investigation while conducting its own internal inquiry.

The release of the body worn video aims to provide transparency and accountability in a case that has raised numerous concerns. By sharing this footage, the Rochester Police Department hopes to address any doubts or uncertainties surrounding the incident. The video’s release is an essential step towards fostering trust and understanding between law enforcement and the community they serve.

As investigations continue, the community awaits further details to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident..