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The Syracuse Police Department has identified Officer Chris Mazzotti as the officer involved in a deadly shooting on North Townsend Street. On Tuesday (May 13), officers responded to reports of gunfire at an apartment building. Upon arrival, they encountered 42-year-old Donnell Hogan, who was in a wheelchair and allegedly firing a handgun inside the building.
According to Syracuse.com, Officer Mazzotti, who has been with the department for five years, fired his patrol rifle once, striking Hogan. Hogan was later pronounced dead at the hospital. The incident prompted an investigation by the New York State Attorney General's Office, which is standard procedure when a civilian dies during an encounter with law enforcement.
The Attorney General's Office confirmed that Hogan fired at officers before being shot. Officer Mazzotti is currently on paid administrative leave while the investigation continues. No other injuries were reported during the incident.
The Syracuse Police Department is urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact their Criminal Investigations Division. As the investigation proceeds, the Attorney General's Office will determine if any wrongdoing occurred and whether any officers should face criminal charges.