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The New York Attorney General's Office has released a report on the fatal shooting of Christopher Murphy, who was involved in a deadly encounter with law enforcement in Salina, New York, in April. The report concluded that officers were justified in using deadly force against Murphy, who killed Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen and Onondaga County Deputy Michael Hoosock.
The incident began when officers responded to a call about traffic violations linked to Murphy's vehicle. Upon arrival at Murphy's residence on Darien Drive, officers found high-capacity ammunition clips in his car. Murphy emerged from his home armed with an AR-15 rifle and opened fire, fatally wounding both Jensen and Hoosock. According to the Attorney General's report, Murphy had alcohol and cocaine in his system at the time.
Officer John Canestrare, who was present at the scene, returned fire after Murphy continued shooting, ultimately resulting in Murphy's death. Canestrare stated that he acted to protect himself and others, as Murphy posed a significant threat. The report confirmed that the officers' actions were in line with New York's justification law, which allows police to use deadly force when necessary to defend against deadly physical force.
The Attorney General's Office expressed condolences to the families of Jensen and Hoosock and confirmed that no criminal charges would be filed against the officers involved.