Police Officer Injured in Brooklyn Standoff
A member of the New York City Police Department’s Emergency Services Unit, with 15 years of service, was shot in the leg during a standoff with an armed man in Brooklyn on Friday morning, according to officials.
The incident began around 5:45 a.m. when officers from the 79th Precinct responded to a 911 call about multiple gunshots coming from a two-story home in Bedford-Stuyvesant.
The suspect, identified as 48-year-old Ramin Simmons, reportedly fired around 20 shots throughout the standoff.
Drone footage later revealed Simmons brandishing a handgun and throwing various items, such as a microwave and lamps, out of a window towards officers stationed below around 8:30 a.m.
Authorities reported that Simmons’ wife and son managed to escape the home and informed police of his mental health issues. However, an elderly couple remained trapped on the upper floor.
Initially, police discovered the conflict originated from a dispute between the couple.
At about 8:52 a.m., ESU officers entered the residence and found Simmons at the top of the stairs. Despite multiple directives to drop his weapon, he allegedly fired at the officers, hitting Detective Matthew Gale in the left leg.
In response, at least four officers returned fire, striking Simmons, who was later taken to Woodhull Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators recovered two firearms from the scene: a Jimenez Arms .380 caliber handgun and a Beretta pistol with an extended magazine. It’s worth noting that Simmons had no prior documented interactions with the NYPD.
Detective Gale suffered a fractured tibia but is in stable condition and expected to recover, according to authorities.
Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised the response of the ESU and highlighted the risks officers often take to protect the community. She stated, “What occurred this morning is a reminder that NYPD members regularly put themselves in harm’s way for the safety of others.” She acknowledged Gale’s bravery during the incident.
New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani visited the hospital to express gratitude to the medical staff and commend Gale’s courage, emphasizing the expectations placed on police officers when New Yorkers call for help. He concluded by urging prayers for Gale’s full recovery.
