Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Manhattan

August 19, 2026

NEW YORK - The New York Attorney General's Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Anthony Griffin, who died on April 11, 2026 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Manhattan.

On April 11, NYPD officers responded to a subway platform at Grand Central Station following a report of a man with a knife. When the officers encountered Mr. Griffin, he approached them while allegedly holding a knife. At 9:40 a.m., one officer discharged his service weapon, striking Mr. Griffin. Mr. Griffin was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a knife at the scene.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI's assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.