A New York City police officer was hit by friendly fire during a confrontation with a knife-wielding man at a Brooklyn subway station. On Sept. 15, 2024, Officers Edmund Mays and Alex Wong encountered Derrell Mickles, 37, at the Sutter Avenue L Train Station in Brooklyn, where a tense standoff unfolded.
The situation began when Mickles reportedly jumped a subway turnstile to avoid paying the fare. The officers pursued Mickles after he returned to the station through an exit gate, this time armed with a knife. Despite commands to show his hands and drop the weapon, Mickles refused and taunted the officers.
When tasers failed to immobilize the suspect, Mickles made a run for it, leading Officers Wong and Mays to fire their weapons. Wong fired six shots, and Mays discharged three rounds. Unfortunately, Officer Mays was struck by a bullet during the incident.
In addition to Mays’ injury, two bystanders were also hurt in the gunfire. All three were treated at local hospitals for their injuries.
Mickles, who continued to hold onto the knife after being shot, was subdued when Officer Mays kicked the weapon away. Mickles was then arrested and charged with several crimes, including attempted assault and criminal possession of a weapon.
This event highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement in rapidly unfolding situations where armed suspects resist arrest, and officers must act swiftly to protect both themselves and the public.
