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

April 2, 2026

NEW YORK - The New York Attorney General's Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Victor Craighead, who died on March 28, 2026 following an encounter with members of the New York State Police (NYSP) in the town of Diana, Lewis County.

In the evening on March 27, NYSP troopers responded to the area of a mobile home on Alpine Road in Diana following a 911 call. During the early morning hours of March 28, Mr. Craighead came out of the mobile home armed with a long gun and fired at troopers who were in an armored vehicle. One trooper discharged his service weapon, striking Mr. Craighead. Mr. Craighead was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers recovered a long gun 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.