📷 Image Credits: Deccan Herald
A tragic incident unfolded in Utica, New York, where a 13-year-old boy was shot and killed by a police officer after a foot chase on Friday night. The boy, identified as Nyah Mway by a close relative, was one of two juveniles stopped by the Utica Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit. During the encounter, the boy ran and displayed what appeared to be a handgun, leading to a struggle on the ground. In the midst of the altercation, a police officer discharged his firearm, ultimately fatally striking the young boy.
Nyah Mway was rushed to the hospital where he tragically succumbed to his wounds. It was later revealed that the handgun he brandished was actually a replica Glock 17 Gen5 pellet gun with a detachable magazine. The incident unfolded as officers were investigating recent robberies in the area involving suspects described as Asian males wielding a black firearm.
The police department identified the officers involved in the shooting, with Patrick Husnay being the officer who fired the fatal shot. The other officers present were Bryce Patterson and Andrew Citriniti, all who have been placed on administrative leave with pay pending investigations. The community in Utica was shaken by the incident, with a vigil held to honor Nyah’s memory. Family, friends, and supporters gathered, questioning the circumstances surrounding the tragic event and calling for justice.
The shooting has sparked discussions and investigations, with the New York Attorney General’s Office opening a probe into the incident. The community, including members of the Karen ethnic group to which Nyah’s family belongs, expressed shock and disbelief at the loss. The aftermath of the shooting has left many in the community reeling, raising questions about trust in law enforcement and the need for transparency and accountability.
As the investigation unfolds, the residents of Utica are grappling with the impact of this heartbreaking event. The tragic loss of a young life has prompted a deeper conversation about police interactions, use of force, and the complexities of community relations. The memory of Nyah Mway will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him, as the community seeks answers and justice for the untimely death of a promising young individual.