Fatal Vestal Police Encounter Now Under New York State Investigation

The New York State Attorney General’s Office has begun reviewing the death of a man following an interaction with police in Broome County.

Officials confirmed that the Office of Special Investigation, commonly referred to as OSI, is examining the circumstances surrounding the death of 37-year-old Eslam Hegazy. The incident occurred on February 25, 2026, in the Town of Vestal.

Officers Dispatched After Emergency Call

According to preliminary details released by investigators, officers with the Vestal Police Department were dispatched to a residence after emergency services received a call late that morning. Authorities say police reached the location within minutes of receiving the call, arriving shortly before noon. When officers arrived, they reportedly encountered Hegazy outside the residence while he was holding a knife.

Police Efforts and Use of Force

Investigators say officers instructed Hegazy multiple times to put down the weapon. During the confrontation, police deployed a Taser in an attempt to gain control of the situation.

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Officials say Hegazy continued to hold the knife after the Taser was used. At that point, two officers fired their duty weapons, striking him.

Hegazy Taken to Hospital After Being Shot

Emergency responders transported Hegazy to a nearby medical facility following the shooting. Authorities say he later died from his injuries the same day. Police reported that a knife was located at the scene.

Legal Requirements for State Investigation

Under New York law, the Attorney General’s Office must review incidents where actions by police or peace officers may have led to a person’s death. The Office of Special Investigation is responsible for determining whether the circumstances require a full criminal investigation.

This requirement applies regardless of whether an officer was working at the time, whether the person who died was armed, or whether they were under arrest or in custody.

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Current Status of the Investigation

Officials say the information released so far represents only the initial facts gathered and could change as investigators continue their review. The Office of Special Investigation will determine the next steps as the investigation progresses.