In a tragic incident, MTA police officers were involved in a fatal shooting in Jamaica, Queens on Friday, where a 52-year-old man, identified as Bashe McDaniel of Manhattan, was shot after allegedly groping a woman and brandishing a semi-automatic weapon. This marked the third fatal shooting in the 26-year-history of the MTA Police Department.

According to authorities, the incident unfolded just after 10 p.m. when a 19-year-old woman approached MTA officers at Jamaica Station and reported that a man had groped her and obstructed her path on the sidewalk minutes earlier. The woman provided a photo she had taken of the alleged perpetrator, who was recognized by the distinctive jacket he was wearing.

Police quickly located McDaniel near 91st Avenue and Sutphin Boulevard, just one block away from Jamaica Station. He was still wearing the same jacket depicted in the victim's photo. As officers attempted to arrest him, McDaniel reportedly resisted and reached toward his waistband, ignoring their demands to show his hands.

In a shocking turn of events, McDaniel fired a single shot. Reacting swiftly, the officers drew their service weapons when they noticed McDaniel was in possession of a semi-automatic firearm. Both officers opened fire, striking McDaniel in the head and body. He was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

The police recovered a gun from the scene, and the entire incident was captured on the officers' body cameras, ensuring a detailed record of the events.

Investigation into McDaniel's background revealed that he was on parole for a previous gun charge and had an extensive criminal history with 12 previous arrests. Additionally, he was also wanted in connection with a robbery.

This is only the fifth time in the MTA Police Department's history that an officer has fired a weapon in the line of duty. The most recent officer-involved shooting prior to this incident occurred on March 12, 2011. Both officers involved in the shooting were transported to a local hospital for evaluation but did not sustain any injuries.

The incident has raised important questions regarding public safety and the ability of law enforcement to respond to incidents involving armed individuals. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident as they work to ensure the safety and security of the community.

As more details emerge, the MTA Police Department will face scrutiny, and the incident will undoubtedly renew discussions surrounding police accountability and the use of force.