New York, New York – New York Attorney General Letitia James released video footage related to the ongoing investigation into the death of Royan Thomas, who died on September 27, 2025, following a motor vehicle incident in Queens involving an off-duty NYPD officer.

The incident occurred at approximately 7:58 p.m. on Francis Lewis Boulevard. As the officer made a left turn onto Linden Boulevard, his vehicle collided with a motorcycle. The motorcycle operator was pronounced dead at the scene, while a passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital.

Footage captured by nearby cameras shows the moments surrounding the collision. Attorney General James stated that the release is intended to increase transparency and strengthen public trust in investigations involving law enforcement officers.

Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, the Office of Special Investigation (OSI) reviews all incidents where a police or peace officer may have caused a death, whether on or off duty, and regardless of whether the decedent was armed, unarmed, in custody, or incarcerated. If an assessment indicates potential officer involvement, OSI conducts a full investigation.

Attorney General James emphasized that releasing the footage does not imply any opinion on the guilt or innocence of any party, nor does it suggest whether charges will be filed.

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