DUANESBURG, N.Y. — New York State Police released body camera footage showing a suspect shooting a trooper at close range during a traffic stop, WNYT reported.
On June 16, 2023, State Trooper Richard Albert pulled over a car that was traveling at more than 100 mph. As Albert approached the vehicle, the suspect fired a handgun out the window, striking Albert in the shoulder, video released on May 8 shows. Despite being wounded, Albert returned fire and continued to engage the suspect in a shootout.
The gunfire caused a chain-reaction crash: a pickup truck stopped abruptly to avoid the scene and was rear-ended by a log truck. Amid the chaos, the suspect and his girlfriend attempted to flee the area, video shows. As Albert began to pursue the suspects, he continued to fire shots through the cruiser’s windshield. Authorities said the log truck driver intentionally rammed their vehicle to prevent them from escaping.
The pair then fled on foot, with Albert, despite his injuries, continuing to pursue them. Another exchange of gunfire occurred as the suspects tried to carjack the damaged pickup truck involved in the crash, but the vehicle was too damaged to flee.
The pair fled into a wooded area. As troopers closed in, one suspect died by suicide. The other was taken into custody.
The Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office is continuing its review of the case. Albert sustained minor injuries and has since recovered.
In 2024, Albert was named Trooper of the Year by the American Association of State Trooper for his bravery and courage during the 2023 incident.
“His courageous actions prevented any further threat to the public without concern for his own safety,” a press release stated.
