Samuel Williams, 36, died after being struck by an unmarked NYPD car during a high-speed chase on the University Heights Bridge in Manhattan. The police pursuit began when officers attempted to pull over his motorbike due to an alleged traffic infraction.
Despite Williams’ death just 60 days later, the city sent him a bill for $3,429.23 for damages to the police car. However, after public outcry and an investigation by the office of State Attorney General Letitia James, the comptroller’s office has withdrawn the reimbursement request.
Williams was a dedicated father who loved his six-year-old daughter. His family believes that the police pursuit was excessive and caused unnecessary harm. “It felt like getting punched in the stomach not once but twice,” said Sha-Sha Prince, Williams’ sister.
The NYPD has refused to provide information about the incident, sparking widespread criticism. The Police Benevolent Association also declined to comment on the matter. Mayor Eric Adams defended the police pursuit policy, stating that it aims to deter people from fleeing after being pulled over.
However, an attorney for Williams’ family argues that the entire ordeal was an overreaction to a minor traffic infraction and that Williams’ life was needlessly lost. “Was it worth killing someone? Of course not,” said Jaime Santana.
The fatal incident is part of a growing trend of crashes following police vehicle pursuits in New York City, with at least seven people killed and 315 injured this year alone.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2024/12/19/city-billed-family-samuel-williams-police-car-crash