Police footage shows the 13-year-old gunman seconds before he was shot by an officer

UTICA, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — The Utica Police Department has released body camera footage of a 13-year-old boy pointing a gun at officers seconds before an officer shoots and kills the teen.

Along with the video, a police spokesperson shared new details about why officers detained 13-year-old Nyah Mwaya before he was shot.

Police say officers contacted Mway and another 13-year-old because they each matched the description of a pair of suspects wanted in connection with two recent robberies in the West Utica area.

“The suspects were described as Asian men who were brandishing a black firearm and forcibly demanding and stealing property from the victims,” police said. “…one was on foot and the other was on a bicycle.”

After being asked to search for weapons, video footage shows Mway running away.

Utica Police Footage

A few seconds later, footage from one of the police officers shows Mway pointing the gun.

“Gun! I have to shoot!” the officer shouted to his colleagues riding behind him, then lunged at the suspect.

“Drop it! Drop it!” another officer shouted at least twice, clips show. Then there was the sound of a single shot.

The officers called for help and administered first aid themselves before the ambulance arrived.

Along with the video, police released evidentiary photos showing the weapon found on Mwaya’s body. Police determined it was a pellet gun. The photos show it under the “Glock” brand.

“We will fully cooperate with the Office of the Attorney General,” Utica Police Chief Mark Williams said Saturday morning. “Ultimately, they will make the decision whether it is justified or not to shoot the person.”

Utica Police have released the names of the officers involved:

• Patrick Husnay who took the shot
• Bryce Patterson
• Andrzej Citrini

All three are on paid administrative leave, in accordance with department policy adopted after the officer-involved shooting.