A young NYPD officer found himself in a life-threatening situation on Monday morning when he was shot, prompting him to return fire, resulting in the shooter’s death. This dramatic turn of events was detailed by New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch during a press conference.
The incident unfolded as officers were attempting to investigate a crime scene where a shooting victim lay dead on a sidewalk, and shell casings were discovered inside a building. Commissioner Tisch explained that while officers were on the scene, a man unexpectedly opened an apartment door and, at close range, discharged a shotgun, striking the officer in the left side of his face.
The officer’s injuries were consistent with being hit by bird shot pellets. Despite his injuries, the officer managed to return fire, forcing the assailant to retreat and barricade himself inside his apartment, according to Tisch.
Ultimately, the shooter was found dead on the scene. Commissioner Tisch confirmed this outcome, stating the suspect was “pronounced DOA on scene.”
A photograph captures the injured officer’s recovery in Brooklyn on November 17, 2025. As the police commissioner recounted, the officer’s quick response likely saved his own life, and officials believe the suspect was killed by the officer’s return fire, ruling out the possibility of a self-inflicted wound.
“We believe the suspect was shot by the injured officer who returned fire once he was shot in the face,” another official said during the press briefing. “We don’t believe that there was a self-inflicted wound,” he said.
The injured officer was greeted by applause from other officers when he was released from the hospital.
Mayor Eric Adams noted that he talked with the police officer.
Mayor Eric Adams listens to a question during a town hall at Sunnyside Community Services Older Adult Center on Feb. 12, 2025, in Queens, New York City. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
“Just spoke to Officer Waris who was guarding a crime scene when he was senselessly shot this morning in Brooklyn. I’m glad to hear that he will be released from the hospital shortly and that he is expected to make a speedy recovery. Him and his family will remain in my prayers. All New Yorkers owe thanks to Officer Waris and the other officers who responded to this incident for their service and bravery,” Adams noted in a post on X.
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani listens a question during a press conference at the Unisphere in the Queens, New York City, Nov. 5, 2025. (Stephani Spindel/VIEWpress)
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani also commented on the shooting.
“My thoughts are with the NYPD officer who was shot this morning in Brownsville and I am praying for his recovery. I’m grateful to law enforcement for their quick response and I will continue to monitor the situation as it develops,” he noted in a post on X.
An NYPD vehicle parked near Union Square Park in Manhattan. (Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul commented on the situation as well, with an X post.
“Praying for the full recovery of the officer shot and injured in Brooklyn this morning. We’re closely monitoring the situation, and @nyspolice stand ready to assist. Grateful to @NYPDnews and all first responders for their swift response,” Hochul said.
