Man Carrying Fake Gun Fatally Shot by Police in West Village, NYPD Confirms

NEW YORK CITY — A man was fatally shot by New York City police officers late Thursday night in Manhattan’s West Village after authorities say he pointed what appeared to be a firearm at officers during a confrontation following a traffic incident. The weapon was later identified as a replica gun.

Incident Began With Road Rage Collision

According to police, the encounter began shortly before 11 p.m. after officers were alerted to a road rage crash involving two vehicles near Sixth Avenue. One of the drivers reportedly attempted to leave the scene, prompting officers to locate and stop the vehicle a short distance away in traffic.

When police approached the car, the man exited the vehicle holding an object that appeared to be a handgun. Officers issued repeated commands for him to drop the weapon.

Officers Fired After Perceived Threat

Police said the man failed to comply and pointed the object toward officers, leading them to believe their lives were in immediate danger. Multiple officers discharged their weapons during the confrontation.

The man was struck and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident.

Weapon Later Found to Be a Replica

Investigators recovered the object from the scene and later confirmed it was a fake gun, designed to closely resemble a real firearm. Authorities noted that in the low-light, fast-moving situation, the replica was indistinguishable from a real weapon.

Background Details Emerge

Police identified the man as a 37-year-old resident of Staten Island. Officials stated that he had recently been involved in family disputes, and legal actions had reportedly been taken in the days leading up to the incident.

Witnesses Describe Chaotic Scene

People in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing officers shouting commands moments before the shooting. The incident caused temporary street closures as investigators secured the area and collected evidence late into the night.

Investigation Underway

As with all police-involved shootings, the NYPD’s internal investigative units are reviewing body camera footage, witness statements, and physical evidence to determine whether proper procedures were followed.

Police officials emphasized that the review process is standard and intended to provide transparency and accountability.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Debate

The fatal shooting has sparked renewed discussion about police encounters involving imitation weapons and how quickly situations can escalate. Community leaders are urging patience as investigators complete their work, while calling for continued dialogue on public safety and de-escalation.

Authorities say additional information will be released once the investigation progresses.