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The New York State Attorney General's Office is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred on Friday (March 21) in Constantia, Oswego County. The incident began when law enforcement responded to a call about a man having a psychotic episode on Cook Road.
The individual involved was identified as 32-year-old Miles Dignean. During the encounter, a struggle ensued, and Dignean reportedly struck a New York State Police trooper with a metal object, causing a minor head injury. In response, an Oswego County sheriff's deputy discharged their weapon, striking Dignean. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The Attorney General's Office is conducting a preliminary assessment to determine if the officer's actions were justified. According to Syracuse.com, the shooting was reported at 1 p.m., and an ambulance was called shortly after. The trooper involved did not fire any shots.
Dignean's father, Alton Dignean, expressed grief over the incident, stating, "They shot my son and killed him. They had tasers right on them, they didn’t have to shoot him." He also noted that his son had suffered from brain injuries in the past.
The Oswego County Sheriff's Office is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact them. The investigation is ongoing, and the Attorney General's Office will determine the next steps based on their findings.