Albany Police Investigating Ambush Shooting Involving Officer

Albany, N.Y. - An officer-involved shooting occurred in Albany on Wednesday morning, characterized by Chief Eric Hawkins as an "ambush." The incident took place at around 12:30 a.m. near the College of Saint Rose, in the vicinity of North Main Avenue and Western Avenue. Chief Hawkins confirmed the suspect involved in the shooting is now deceased.

According to the preliminary information provided by the police, the officer initiated a traffic stop, attempting to halt a speeding vehicle. However, the driver evaded capture, prompting the officer to continue the pursuit. Later on, the officer reportedly noticed the car parked and made another attempt to approach the driver. It was during this encounter that the officer was unexpectedly "ambushed" from behind the vehicle.

Mayor Kathy Sheehan condemned the incident, describing it as an act of "depraved gun violence" and addressing the need for stronger measures to curb the flow of guns into Albany. She voiced her support for the injured officer, wishing for a swift recovery, and extended sympathies to the deceased suspect's family.

Local defense attorney and Albany District Attorney candidate, Lee Kindlon, also expressed condolences and echoed the concerns surrounding the escalation of gun-related incidents. Kindlon emphasized the importance of increased efforts to ensure public safety.

The investigation into the shooting is currently ongoing, with law enforcement urging residents to avoid the area and find alternate routes. As updates on the situation emerge, CBS 6 will continue to provide the latest developments.

This occurrence follows closely after the deadly shooting incident in Syracuse on Sunday night. In that event, a Syracuse Police Department officer, an Onondaga County Sheriff's Office deputy, and the suspect involved were tragically killed.