NYPD Officers Shoot Man with History of Mental Health Issues in Queens

On January 26, 2026, at approximately 10:25 a.m., NYPD officers shot a 22-year-old man in Briarwood, Queens, after he lunged at them with a large kitchen knife. The incident occurred at a residence on Parsons Boulevard, following a 911 call from a family member reporting that the man was throwing glass against the wall during a mental health episode. Upon arrival, officers encountered the man in the kitchen, where he retrieved the knife and advanced toward them despite repeated commands to drop the weapon.

NYPD cops shoot man with ‘history of mental issues’ who lunged at them with kitchen knife: policeQueens police-involved shooting: Cops open fire on man who charged at them with knife, chief says – amNewYorkMan with large kitchen knife shot by police in Briarwood, NYPD saysMan shot, wounded by NYPD cops for lunging at them with knife in Queens: police

Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, commanding officer of Patrol Borough Queens South, reported that the officers attempted to de-escalate the situation by isolating the man with a closed glass door. However, he managed to push through the door and continued his aggressive approach. At this point, officers discharged their weapons, striking the man multiple times. He was subsequently transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he underwent surgery and was reported to be in stable condition.

Queens police-involved shooting: Cops open fire on man who charged at them with knife, chief says – amNewYork

A neighbor, who witnessed the event, described hearing officers shout “Drop the knife!” followed by gunfire. The neighbor noted that the entire incident unfolded rapidly, within approximately 10 to 20 seconds. He characterized the suspect as a “nice kid” who had previously exhibited emotional disturbances, suggesting a history of mental health issues.

NYPD cops shoot man with ‘history of mental issues’ who lunged at them with kitchen knife: police

The NYPD confirmed that the incident is under investigation by the Force Investigation Division, and body-worn camera footage has been recorded. Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his commitment to keeping the public informed as more details emerge regarding the shooting.

Man with large kitchen knife shot by police in Briarwood, NYPD says

While the police emphasized their attempts to de-escalate the situation, critics have raised concerns about the handling of individuals with mental health issues by law enforcement. The incident has reignited discussions about police training and protocols in dealing with emotionally disturbed persons.

Man shot, wounded by NYPD cops for lunging at them with knife in Queens: police

There are discrepancies regarding the number of shots fired and the exact injuries sustained by the suspect. Some sources indicate he suffered at least four gunshot wounds, while others do not specify the number. Additionally, the police have not disclosed the number of officers involved in the shooting.

Man shot, wounded by NYPD cops for lunging at them with knife in Queens: police

The investigation into the shooting will continue, with a focus on reviewing the body-worn camera footage and assessing the officers' actions during the encounter. The NYPD is expected to release further details as the inquiry progresses.

NYPD cops shoot man with ‘history of mental issues’ who lunged at them with kitchen knife: police

• “The male ignored these repeat commands to drop the knife and continued to advance towards the officers, still armed with the knife, moving from the kitchen to the living room.” — Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, NYPD

NYPD cops shoot man with ‘history of mental issues’ who lunged at them with kitchen knife: police

• “I heard, ‘Drop the knife, drop the knife’ a few times and then four shots,” — Neighbor, Eyewitness

NYPD cops shoot man with ‘history of mental issues’ who lunged at them with kitchen knife: police

• “This entire incident is depicted on body worn camera footage,” — Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, NYPD

Man with large kitchen knife shot by police in Briarwood, NYPD says