Body camera footage recently released by the Buffalo Police Department in New York has captured a chilling moment where a police officer, identified as Officer Ronald Ammerman, fatally shot a fleeing suspect while clinging to the suspect’s speeding car. The suspect, 25-year-old Dae’von Roberts, was pulled over for speeding by Officer Ammerman on Kingston Avenue. However, Roberts decided to accelerate in an attempt to escape from law enforcement, with Officer Ammerman desperately holding onto the car and pleading with Roberts to stop. In the passenger seat, a 6-year-old boy could be heard screaming in terror as the dramatic events unfolded.
As the car sped away, Officer Ammerman fired several shots, causing both him and Roberts to tumble to the ground. Despite the chaos, Officer Ammerman made sure to check on the child in the car, who thankfully remained unharmed. Unfortunately, Roberts was pronounced dead at a local hospital following the incident. A gun was later discovered inside the vehicle, further complicating the situation.
Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia supported Officer Ammerman’s actions, stating that the use of force was justified given the imminent danger that Officer Ammerman faced. Gramaglia emphasized the unpredictable nature of such situations, highlighting the challenges that law enforcement officers encounter in real-life scenarios compared to training exercises.
The encounter between Officer Ammerman and Roberts initially appeared to be routine, with the officers approaching the situation in a professional and friendly manner. However, things took a drastic turn when Roberts attempted to flee, leading to the tragic chain of events. It was revealed that Roberts had a loaded handgun in his car, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Prior to this incident, Roberts had faced legal trouble related to a shots-fired incident at a memorial for his half-brother Jaylen Griffin. Roberts had been charged and indicted in connection with the incident, but was released under supervision. The involvement of Officer Ammerman and another officer, Jonathan Crawford, in the shooting has led to both officers being placed on administrative leave as part of standard department procedure.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Commissioner Gramaglia acknowledged the emotional toll that such events can take on law enforcement officers, emphasizing the need for time to process and recover from the traumatic experience. The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks and challenges faced by police officers in the line of duty, highlighting the complex and often unpredictable nature of law enforcement work.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic incident. The release of the body camera footage has sparked discussions around police procedures, use of force, and the broader implications for public safety. Ultimately, the case underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and ongoing dialogue between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
