Rozario Family Files Legal Motion
The family of Win Rozario, a 19-year-old Queens teenager shot and killed by the NYPD during a mental health crisis in March, is taking legal steps against the city. They are claiming damages of $30 million for the tragic incident that occurred on March 27. “The city is accountable for the pain they have inflicted on this family,” declared Luna Droubi, the family’s lawyer, at a press conference.
Rozario had dialed 911 himself, leading police officers to his home. Despite pleas from his family, the officers tased and shot Rozario, resulting in his death.
Claim Against the City and NYPD
The family’s attorney has made the initial move towards suing the city, asserting that the officers acted with “reckless disregard”. This action, according to the claim, led to Rozario’s untimely death and placed his family at unnecessary risk.
“We’ve filed our intent to sue the city, not only for Win Rozario’s estate but also for his distraught mother and brother who witnessed this horrific incident,” said Droubi.
Rozario’s parents, Notan Eva Costa and Francis Rozario, and his brother Utsho Rozario, attended the Tuesday afternoon press conference. They chose not to speak, with Rozario’s mother shedding tears as a family representative spoke about her son’s birthday that would have been celebrated on July 4.
State Investigation on Rozario’s Death
The State Attorney General’s office is conducting an investigation into Rozario’s death, providing hope for justice for the family. The investigation is still in progress, confirmed Alexis Richards, a spokesperson for the AG’s office. Previously, the AG’s office shared the bodycam footage of the confrontation from May.
A spokesperson for Mayor Adams released a statement, expressing condolences for the Rozario family and promising full cooperation during the investigation.
Bodycam Footage Sheds Light on Incident
Matthew Cianfrocco and Salvatore Alongi, the two officers involved, encountered Rozario’s younger brother who explained that his brother was in the middle of a mental health crisis. Despite these explanations, the officers entered the home, tased Rozario, and shot him as his family desperately requested them not to.
The footage displays Rozario moving towards the officers with a pair of scissors, with his family frantically trying to hold him back. The incident culminated with the officers discharging multiple shots and killing Rozario just a few minutes after entering his home.
A Struggling Family Desperate for Justice
The days following the gruesome incident have been torturous for the family. The struggle to find affordable relocation has added more pressure. The family is still residing in the same apartment where the heartbreaking incident unfolded, further deepening their trauma.
Utsho Rozario spoke on behalf of the family, calling for the understanding of New Yorkers. “We need you to understand that Win should be alive. The treatment the NYPD meted out to us after his death is unacceptable,” he impressively stated.
Mayor Eric Adams has indicated he will avoid taking disciplinary action against the officers involved until the AG’s investigation is complete. Despite their ongoing struggles, the Rozario family remains hopeful for justice for their beloved Win.