A 13-year-old boy was fatally shot by police in Utica, New York, on Friday night after he pointed a replica handgun at officers during a pursuit, prompting an investigation by the state attorney general's office.

According to police, the boy was chased after fleeing a stop by the Crime Prevention Unit, leading to a confrontation where he reportedly aimed what appeared to be a Glock handgun at officers. The weapon was later identified as a pellet gun. Despite immediate first aid efforts, the boy succumbed to his injuries at Wynn Hospital. Both the New York State Attorney General's Office and the Utica Police Department are investigating the shooting, and the involved officers have been placed on administrative leave. The city promises transparency as it addresses community concerns.

The incident unfolded around 10:18 p.m. local time when officers from the Utica Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit were conducting a stop as part of an undisclosed investigation. During this stop, a group of teens was approached, and one of the teens fled on foot, leading to a pursuit by the officers.

During the chase, the 13-year-old boy allegedly pointed what appeared to be a Glock handgun at the pursuing officers. This prompted the officers to open fire. The weapon was later found to be a replica Glock handgun, specifically a pellet gun with a detachable magazine. The officers immediately administered first aid at the scene before the boy was transported to Wynn Hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.

Authorities have not released the identities of either the deceased 13-year-old or the officer involved in the shooting. The boy's name has also been withheld out of respect for the family's privacy, as stated by the interim superintendent of the Utica City School District. The city and law enforcement officials have expressed their condolences to the family.

A video of the incident, which has been circulating on social media, has drawn significant attention. However, authorities urge the public to be cautious, as the footage does not capture the entirety of the event. The Utica Police Department has announced that body camera footage and a comprehensive report will be released in the coming days to provide a fuller account of the incident.

In response to the shooting, the New York State Attorney General's Office will lead an independent investigation to determine the circumstances and legality of the officers' actions. Concurrently, the Utica Police Department is conducting its own internal review to assess whether the officers adhered to departmental policies and training. During this period, the officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave with pay.

The incident has spurred intense scrutiny and discussions within the community. At a press conference held by the police chief and Mayor Michael Galime, there were disruptions from community members expressing their frustrations and demanding answers. The mayor has pledged that the investigation will be transparent and assured that officials would meet privately with the boy’s family and local community members to address their concerns.

Adding to the community's apprehensions, the Utica Police Department's procedures and training are under evaluation to ensure compliance with standards aimed at preventing such incidents. Mayor Galime emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability as the investigations proceed.

The forthcoming release of the body camera footage is anticipated to shed additional light on the sequence of events that led to the tragic outcome. The city and police department have expressed their commitment to a comprehensive and transparent investigation process.

The tragedy has deeply affected the Utica community and has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by police departments nationwide in interactions with youth and in high-stress situations. As the investigations by the Attorney General’s Office and the Utica Police Department move forward, the community is awaiting further information and clarity on the incident.