UPDATE: A critical officer-involved shooting has just unfolded in downtown Troy, New York, leaving the suspect in critical condition and raising urgent concerns for community safety. The incident occurred on October 14, 2023, around 10 p.m., when police responded to a harrowing 911 call from a woman claiming she was being chased by her ex-partner, Michael Rodriguez, 41, who was armed and had previously threatened her with a handgun.
The situation escalated rapidly after officers located Rodriguez walking on Ferry Street near 6th Avenue and attempted to make contact. In a shocking turn of events, Rodriguez opened fire on the officers without provocation. Both responding officers returned fire, seeking cover while following their training protocols. The female victim managed to escape the scene unharmed.
Rodriguez fled the scene but collapsed after dropping his firearm and illegal narcotics in a nearby parking area. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he is currently in critical condition. The two officers involved were taken to a hospital for evaluation but were not physically injured, according to police reports.
Chief of Police Daniel DeWolf expressed his pride in the officers’ response, highlighting the trauma experienced during such tense encounters. “While the initial response has concluded, the trauma endured by the involved officers remains,” DeWolf stated, reaffirming the department’s commitment to providing support.
Rodriguez, a parolee supervised by the NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, was previously convicted of Attempted Murder and other charges from a 2019 incident in Troy. He will face additional charges stemming from the current incident, with prosecutors from the Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office already on the scene to oversee the investigation.
Mayor Carmella R. Mantello expressed relief that no officers or civilians were harmed, calling it a miracle amidst the chaos. “Tonight’s incident is a stark reminder that even a seemingly routine call can escalate into a critical and dangerous situation,” she added.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about this incident to contact the Troy Police Department at (518) 270-4411. As investigations continue, the community remains on high alert, reflecting on the dangers law enforcement faces daily.
The ongoing investigation involves several specialty units from the Troy Police Department, along with assistance from the New York State Police. This incident highlights the immediate dangers associated with domestic violence situations and the critical role of police in ensuring public safety.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as authorities work to bring clarity and justice to those affected.
