Attorney General James releases newly obtained video footage as investigation continues into the death of Dmitry Zass

New York – New York Attorney General Letitia James has released video footage connected to the ongoing investigation into the death of Dmitry Zass, who died following an encounter with New York City Police Department officers earlier this year in Manhattan. The footage includes recordings from nearby security cameras as well as two body-worn cameras used by responding officers.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, the videos were obtained as part of an active investigation being conducted by the Office of Special Investigation (OSI), which is reviewing the circumstances surrounding Mr. Zass’s death on January 8, 2026. The release of the footage is intended to provide transparency as the investigation continues.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:52 p.m. on January 8. Authorities said a man flagged down NYPD officers and directed them to a vehicle that was stopped in traffic and had reportedly been involved in a motor vehicle collision. As officers approached the car, the driver, later identified as Dmitry Zass, exited the vehicle.

Investigators say Mr. Zass then pointed what appeared to be a firearm at the officers. In response, the officers discharged their service weapons, striking him. Emergency medical assistance was provided, and Mr. Zass was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. A pellet pistol was recovered at the scene following the encounter.

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The Attorney General’s Office emphasized that the footage released includes only a portion of the evidence being reviewed and does not represent final findings. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional evidence, including witness statements and forensic analysis, is still under review.

Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI is required to assess every incident reported to it in which a police officer or peace officer may have caused the death of a person through an act or omission. This mandate applies regardless of whether the officer was on duty or off duty and whether the individual who died was armed or unarmed. The law also covers situations in which the individual may or may not have been in custody or incarcerated at the time of the incident.

If OSI’s initial assessment determines that a police officer may have caused the death, the office proceeds with a full investigation. That process can include reviewing video footage, interviewing officers and witnesses, consulting experts, and analyzing physical and forensic evidence. The goal is to determine whether the use of force was lawful and whether any criminal charges are warranted.

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Officials stressed that the public release of video evidence is part of the Attorney General’s broader effort to maintain transparency in cases involving police use of force. At the same time, they cautioned against drawing conclusions based solely on the footage.

The Attorney General’s Office stated clearly that the release of this footage is not an expression of any opinion as to the guilt or innocence of any party in a criminal matter or any opinion as to how or whether any individual may be charged with a crime.

The investigation into Mr. Zass’s death remains active.