**Graphic Body Camera Video Released by Buffalo Police Shows Fatal Shooting Incident**
The Buffalo Police Department has made public the body camera footage capturing the tragic incident that unfolded on Reed Street this past Saturday, resulting in the fatal shooting of a 58-year-old man identified as Edward Holmes from Buffalo.
According to reports, officers were responding to a distress call regarding an armed individual at around 10 a.m. in the 100 block of Reed Street. Upon arrival, the officers encountered Holmes, who was armed with a shotgun matching the description provided in the initial report. The tense situation escalated as Holmes allegedly pointed the weapon at the officers and fired a shot in their direction.
Despite repeated commands to drop the gun, Holmes allegedly continued to pose a threat to the officers, prompting them to open fire in self-defence. Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia disclosed that a total of 20 rounds were discharged by the two officers involved, resulting in Holmes being struck twice – once in the chest and once in the arm. Despite immediate medical attention from the responding authorities, Holmes succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The two officers responsible for the shooting, identified as Andrew Lewis and Joshua Slupinski from C District, have been placed on administrative leave pending further investigation. Lewis, who has been with the department for 18 months, and Slupinski, with five years of service, are cooperating with the ongoing inquiry into the incident.
In a surprising turn of events, it was revealed that Holmes himself had placed the initial 911 call, reporting a man with a shotgun on the street. Gramaglia stated that Holmes had disguised his identity during the call, portraying himself as a mere bystander rather than the subject of concern. The lack of any indication of a mental health crisis or a plea for assistance from Holmes has left investigators puzzled over the motive behind his actions.
Following the release of the body camera footage, friends and family of Edward Holmes gathered for a vigil to commemorate his life and seek clarity from the authorities regarding the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. Gramaglia and his team have met with the grieving family to address their queries and extend their heartfelt condolences.
The New York State Attorney General’s Office has taken charge of the investigation, urging anyone with pertinent information or additional footage to come forward and assist in shedding light on the tragic events that transpired on Reed Street. The confidential hotline for tips and submissions is (716) 847-2255..
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