Nyah Mway : “Family Demands Accountability for N.Y. Police Killing of 13-Year-Old – Police Claim BB Gun Aimed”

On Wednesday, Nyah Mway completed his middle school education in central New York, where his family had resettled as refugees from Myanmar ten years ago. However, by Friday night, the 13-year-old tragically lost his life in a fatal police shooting after allegedly pointing a BB gun at officers during a foot chase.

The devastating incident has left Nyah’s family and their immigrant community in shock and mourning, demanding justice for the young boy and accountability for the police officers involved. Nyah’s cousin, Lay Htoo, expressed their family’s hopes of finding peace and opportunities in the United States, only to be met with the heartbreaking loss of their beloved son.

Demands for Justice and Accountability

Nyah’s parents, instead of celebrating his transition to high school, are now grappling with the grief of his untimely death and seeking answers about the actions of the officers. The family, along with members of the local Myanmar community, are calling for a meeting with Utica Mayor Michael P. Galime to address the tragic incident.

As investigations unfold, the officers involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave, awaiting further scrutiny into the events that led to Nyah’s death.

Police Response and Community Outcry

The shooting took place on Friday night in Utica, a city known for its diverse immigrant population, including over 4,200 individuals from Myanmar. According to police reports, Nyah and another 13-year-old boy were stopped as potential suspects in an armed robbery case, leading to the fatal confrontation.

Body camera footage revealed the sequence of events, with officers mistaking the BB gun Nyah was carrying for a real firearm. The tragic outcome has sparked outrage within the community, with concerns raised about the escalation of force and the need for improved police training.

Family Background and Tragic Loss

Nyah’s family fled Myanmar to Thailand before resettling in the US, where the young boy was born in a refugee camp. Described as a bright student with a love for soccer and mathematics, Nyah’s untimely death has left his loved ones devastated and seeking answers.

As investigations continue and calls for justice grow louder, Nyah’s family and community are left mourning the loss of a promising young life caught in the crosshairs of tragedy.