The New York State Police continue to investigate a Trooper-involved shooting that occurred earlier today in Woodbury, NY.
On September 18, 2024, at about 5:35 a.m., State Police Troop T was notified of a stolen 2021 Chevrolet Equinox that was traveling northbound on the New York State Thruway in Rockland County.
A short time later, Troopers spotted the vehicle approaching Exit 16 in Harriman, Orange County, and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver, identified as Ali Ali, age 28, of New York, NY, failed to comply and continued to travel north. The vehicle became disabled about four miles north of Exit 16, struck a tractor-trailer and caught fire. Ali was able to get out of the vehicle and fled into a wooded area off the highway in Woodbury, NY.
It was determined that Ali was wanted in connection with a stabbing being investigated by the NYPD.
State Police established a command post on Smith Clove Road in the town of Woodbury and initiated a search with the assistance of numerous other law enforcement agencies.
Early this afternoon, State Police were notified by a homeowner in Highland Mills that he captured video of Ali on a trail cam. After reviewing the footage, Troopers entered a wooded area off Trout Brook Road near where the sighting occurred, and at about 1:47 p.m., spotted Ali, who was armed with a knife.
Troopers ordered Ali numerous times to drop the knife and surrender, but he failed to comply. Troopers twice deployed a taser at Ali, who appeared to fall to the ground but immediately got up, charging at Troopers while brandishing the knife. One of the Troopers discharged his Division-issued firearm, striking Ali. Troopers immediately began life saving measures but Ali died at the scene.
The investigation is ongoing. State Police notified the New York State Attorney General’s Office, which responded to the scene.
State Police were assisted by the NYPD, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, town of Woodbury Police Department, and the New York State Park Police. Troopers from State Police Troop F, Troop T, Special Operations Response Team, Aviation, Unmanned Aerial Systems and canine units also participated in the search.
