CITY OF LIBERTY / LIBERTY CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

PRESS ADVISEMENTS

47th Precinct Assault Rifle Recovery

1998-291 / 47th Precinct / 1998-07-09

STATUS: PUBLISHED

Press release header photograph
PUBLIC PRESS CONTACTDavid Rosario - (452) 800-0935
Police Officer DeFalco and Police Officer Ward of the 47th Precinct, Patrol Borough Bohan, were conducting visibility patrol when they observed a male openly displaying what appeared to be an AK-47 style assault rifle. As the officers attempted to stop and question the individual, the suspect opened fire on Police Officer DeFalco and Police Officer Ward, shortly fleeing away afterwards. The suspect was soon rediscovered by Officer Abdulrazzaq of the Housing Bureau. Upon gaining site of the officers, the individual opened fire again. The officers returned fire, striking the suspect. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene. Lieutenant Scott Merrick sustained a gunshot wound and was transported to North Holland Medical Center for treatment. A loaded AK-47 style assault rifle was recovered from the suspect following the incident. Police Officer DeFalco, Police Officer Abdulrazzaq, and Police Officer Ward are commended for their swift actions and courage under fire, which resulted in the recovery of the assault rifle and the elimination of an immediate threat to the public.