CARLE PLACE, NY – Police in Long Island fatally shot a man who brandished a weapon at officers, later identified as a BB gun. The incident unfolded after the man’s mother called authorities, reporting her son was intoxicated and agitated.
James Rosario, 33, was living with his parents when the tragic event occurred. According to police, his mother was unaware of any firearms in the home, only knowing of knives her son kept in the basement. This call to the police would be the last, ending with Rosario’s death.
Before the confrontation, Rosario reportedly told his mother, “Kiss me and say goodbye. I’m going outside, and the police are going to take my life.” When officers arrived, Rosario became increasingly agitated, removing his shirt and emptying his pockets.
Nassau County authorities responded to the Rushmore Avenue home shortly after midnight. An officer, while speaking with Rosario’s mother, noticed Rosario pointing what appeared to be a shotgun. The officer quickly pushed the mother inside to safety.
Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, Rosario refused. Police later discovered that the weapon was actually a BB gun. Officers exercised restraint until the situation escalated, resulting in a single shot that proved fatal.
Neighbor Natalie Miller, who witnessed the commotion, described the family as pleasant and expressed disbelief over the event. Rosario, however, had a history of legal troubles, including charges of assault, burglary, and arson.
The community is grappling with the incident, questioning why non-lethal force wasn’t employed. Authorities defended the officer’s actions, citing the perceived threat and the need to protect lives.
Detectives are continuing their investigation as the neighborhood mourns. Attempts to contact Rosario’s family went unanswered. Rosario succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
The Nassau County Police Department released a statement emphasizing their officers’ bravery in responding to a perceived threat.