Mamdani Faces Criticism Over Delayed Response to NYPD Shootings

Zohran Mamdani, the new mayor of New York City, is facing significant backlash for his delayed and inadequate response to two police shootings. These incidents have raised tensions between him and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

Mamdani’s Response to Police Shootings

Mamdani waited over 16 hours to address the shootings that occurred on a Thursday evening, despite being briefed by Tisch shortly after each event. The first shooting took place at Brooklyn Methodist Hospital around 5:30 p.m., where a former NYPD officer, Michael Lynch, held two people hostage with a piece of broken toilet. Police attempted to subdue Lynch with Tasers, but ultimately resorted to using firearms. Lynch was pronounced dead at the scene.

The second incident occurred around 11 p.m. in Manhattan, involving a motorist named Dmitry Zass. He exited a BMW brandishing what appeared to be a gun, prompting police to open fire. Zass was later confirmed dead at a nearby hospital. His weapon was found to be an imitation handgun.

Public and Official Reactions

Mamdani’s statement, delivered via X (formerly Twitter) at 9:44 a.m. the following morning, stressed the ongoing internal investigations into the incidents. However, the language used in his announcement drew criticism for suggesting possible wrongdoing by the police, an interpretation many viewed as misguided given the routine nature of such investigations.

• Mamdani emphasized the need for a thorough investigation along with Commissioner Tisch.
• Tisch had earlier praised the bravery of the officers involved, stating they acted heroically to protect lives.

Despite being urged for immediate clarity, Mamdani’s comments seemed to lack specific support for the officers involved. Sources indicated that City Hall had remained in constant communication with NYPD leadership during the events, making Mamdani’s silence even more perplexing.

Comparisons to Former Mayor De Blasio

This incident marks one of Mamdani’s first major tests as mayor, just over a week into his administration. Observers have drawn similarities between his handling of this crisis and the initial missteps of former Mayor Bill de Blasio regarding police relations.

Critics of Mamdani have suggested he is distancing himself from law enforcement, a strategy that some believe could undermine his credibility and leadership. As the public calls for transparency and support from the mayor, questions linger about how Mamdani will navigate his relationship with the NYPD moving forward.

The Office of Special Investigation, led by State Attorney General Letitia James, announced it would review the road rage shooting involving Zass, as part of its standard procedure for incidents resulting in death involving police officers.