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NY Police Release Body-Worn Camera Footage from Albany July 4th Response

The New York State Police today released body-worn camera footage from Troopers who responded to the volatile and dangerous events that unfolded on the night of July 4, 2025, following the fireworks display at the Empire State Plaza. The footage captures the swift and heroic actions of several State Troopers who responded to both a shooting and an active structure fire near Madison Avenue and Swan Street.


At approximately 10:00 p.m., as Troopers were assisting with crowd disbursement along Madison Avenue, reports of shots fired were received in the area of 337 Madison Avenue. Responding Troopers and Investigators located a teenage male with a gunshot wound to the head and discovered a working fire on the first floor of 333 Madison Avenue. Members immediately initiated lifesaving efforts on the gunshot victim and began evacuating nearby residences threatened by fire and smoke.

Troopers were joined on the scene by members of the Albany City Police Department, who provided critical support as the incident unfolded. Their quick response and coordination helped ensure the safety of residents and first responders in a rapidly evolving situation.

The body-worn camera footage released today documents the courageous response of several New York State Troopers as they entered burning and smoke-filled structures to evacuate residents.

Trooper Thomas Stiehler, SP Brunswick, is seen rushing into the structure at 333 Madison Avenue to evacuate residents. When the conditions inside became too dangerous, he exited and entered 335 Madison Avenue, a connected row house filling with smoke. There, he climbed multiple flights of stairs, located an elderly woman, and carried her to safety. He later re-entered the building with Trooper Zachary Deaprix, SP Capitol, to clear the remaining apartments.

Trooper James McGill, SP Capitol, entered the apartment beneath the fire floor, assisting several occupants in evacuating. He methodically searched the entire unit to ensure no one was left behind. As he exited through the front of the structure, body-worn camera footage shows him navigating flaming debris falling from the windows above.

Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The actions of these Troopers, and our partners from the Albany Police Department, reflect extraordinary courage and professionalism. Our members ran toward gunfire, into burning buildings, and did everything they could to save lives. This is what it means to serve the people of New York.”

The investigation into the shooting and fire is being led by the Albany Police Department, the Albany Fire Department, and the Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

The New York State Police is releasing this body-worn camera footage to demonstrate the exceptional response by our members and to promote transparency surrounding a significant public safety event.

To view the video, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPtJve4kHFI

For media inquiries, please contact the New York State Police Public Information Office at (518) 457-2180.


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