Cop fires shot during deadly incident

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - It began as a routine traffic stop, but ended with two people dead. Buffalo Police are still not releasing the names of both the 48-year-old driver and the 54-year-old pedestrian until autopsies are completed.

Police say the driver had as many as three prior DWI convictions and they believe alcohol played a role in this double fatal accident.

Around 7 p.m. Thursday at Fillmore Avenue and Best Street, what should have been a routine traffic stop took a dramatic turn. Police officers believe the man was driving drunk.

Buffalo Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda said, “The officers had the suspect shut off the vehicle. He became confrontational, we believe that a struggle ensued when he tried to start the vehicle and at some point, one of the officers was dragged and a shot was fired in close proximity.”

Derenda wouldn’t comment on whether or not the suspect was hit. Derenda explained, “At this point there is an autopsy being conducted as we speak. I do not have that information.”

The 48-year-old man took off at a high rate of speed, traveling about a mile before crashing into three light poles.

“There was a crash. He took out three light poles, one of which struck a female who was standing on the sidewalk.” Derenda said, “People have to understand that they have to take responsibility, tragic situation.”

Derenda says one of those officers was taken to ECMC for medical attention, but didn’t comment on the extent of any injuries.