NYPD bodycam footage shows subway shooting; protests continue

The New York Police Department (NYPD) released body-worn camera video of an officer-involved shooting at a subway station on Sunday, Sept. 15. Four people were injured including two bystanders, an officer and the suspect.

Police said it started when Derrell Mickles, who had a knife, jumped a turnstile to avoid paying the subway fare.

In the bodycam footage, officers can be seen going after Mickles up the stairs. They eventually cornered him and ordered Mickles to drop his knife, but he refused.

“I’m not dropping it, you’ll have to shoot me,” Mickles said in the video.

When the train pulled into the station, Mickles backed onto it and officers follow him. Officers repeatedly told Mickles to put the knife down. When he did not, they fired their Tasers, which were ineffective.

Mickles walked off the train, with the knife still in his hand. He then ran in the direction of one officer, who ran backwards. When the officers pulled out their guns, Mickles comes to a complete stop with his hands by his sides.

Officers then fired multiple shots, hitting Mickles who fell to the ground. 

The incident sparked protests in New York City. Demonstrators said police used excessive force on Mickles. New York City public advocacy group Legal Aid Society said the bodycam video “completely contradicts the Department’s claim that Mickles ‘charged’ at one of the officers.”

“While this matter remains under investigation, the NYPD’s initial review found that this shooting took place after the suspect involved brandished a dangerous weapon and put officers’ lives at risk,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement after the bodycam video was released. “While the formal review continues, and out of respect for that process, I will avoid commenting any further.”

Mickles was charged with aggravated assault on a police officer with a deadly weapon, among other charges. He was arraigned Friday, Sept. 20, from his hospital bed.

Mickles’ lawyer said his client is still recovering and unable to walk.

One of the bystanders who was injured in the shooting, Gregory Delpeche, is still in critical condition but making improvements, according to his family.