Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office announced an investigation into a tactical NYPD officer following an incident where the officer accidentally fired his weapon while removing anti-Israel agitators from a building at Columbia University. The NYPD stood by their initial finding that the discharge was accidental, with the officer moving the gun from his dominant right hand to his left hand to try and open a locked metal door before unintentionally discharging the weapon. The bullet went through a glass window into an unlit room, with officials stating that no one was in danger during the incident. The NYPD typically does not release bodycam footage of accidental discharges, and no plans have been made to do so in this case.
On Tuesday, police arrested 282 people during crackdowns at Columbia University and City College of New York, resulting in 74 individuals facing misdemeanor or more serious charges. Another 16 had outstanding warrants, with approximately half of those arrested having no affiliation with the schools. Columbia University asked the NYPD for assistance in clearing out anti-Israel agitators who had barricaded themselves inside a building, leading to the accidental discharge of the officer’s weapon as they attempted to remove the individuals. The NYPD reported that the round did not cause any injuries and was deemed to be an accidental discharge following an investigation. Bodycam footage of the incident was sent to the DA’s office for review.
Briggs’ office informed local news outlets that their police accountability unit was reviewing the incident, which resulted in more than 100 arrests at Columbia University. Among those arrested were 46 individuals inside Hamilton Hall who were arraigned on criminal trespassing and related charges. Bodycam footage showed officers having to navigate through barricades of heavy furniture and steel chains before encountering the occupiers who were holed up in a classroom. All suspects were released on their own recognizance under New York’s bail reform law, meaning they did not need to post bond to be released.
The incident at Columbia University has sparked concerns around campus antisemitism, with students feeling alone in the face of anti-Israel protests. The NYPD’s response to the situation, including the accidental discharge of the officer’s weapon, has raised questions about accountability and proper use of force in such situations. While the NYPD maintained that the discharge was accidental and that no one was in danger, the incident led to a significant number of arrests and charges being brought against the anti-Israel agitators involved in the building takeover. The DA’s office and police accountability unit continue to review the situation.
The release of bodycam footage and ongoing investigations by the DA’s office indicate a commitment to transparency and accountability in dealing with the incident at Columbia University. The accidental discharge of the officer’s weapon has raised concerns about the use of force in handling protests and demonstrations on college campuses. The fact that no one was injured during the incident may have prevented further escalation, but questions remain about the response by law enforcement and the actions of the anti-Israel agitators involved. As the investigation progresses, more details may emerge about the circumstances surrounding the incident and the individuals involved.
Overall, the incident at Columbia University highlights the complex dynamics at play during protests and demonstrations, and the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order while respecting the rights and safety of all individuals involved. The response by the NYPD, the DA’s office, and campus leadership will be crucial in addressing concerns around campus antisemitism and ensuring that similar incidents are handled appropriately in the future. The release of bodycam footage and ongoing investigations will be important in providing transparency and accountability, as well as addressing any issues that may arise from the incident.
