In a dramatic and chaotic incident in Buffalo, New York, police bodycam footage captured the moment a routine traffic stop spiraled into a deadly confrontation.
It all started when Officer Ronald Ammerman pulled over 25-year-old Daevon Roberts for speeding and having tinted windows.
The situation escalated quickly as Roberts attempted to flee with a 6-year-old relative in the passenger seat, unbuckled.
Officer Ammerman, with his arm on top of the car and leg inside, pleaded with Roberts to stop, warning, “You’re gonna kill me bro.”
Despite the officer’s pleas, Roberts accelerated, reaching speeds over 60 mph.
As Roberts tried to kick Officer Ammerman out of the car, the officer fired six shots into the vehicle, ultimately bringing it to a halt.
The child was unharmed, but Roberts was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. A loaded gun with seven rounds was later found under the driver’s seat.
Investigation and Justification
Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia defended the officer’s actions, stating, “I believe that is a justified use of force.”
He emphasized the grave risk Officer Ammerman faced, which legally justified the use of lethal force. Both officers involved have been placed on administrative leave pending further investigations by Buffalo homicide detectives and the Internal Affairs Division.
A Troubled History
The incident has highlighted the tragic backstory of Roberts, who was the half-brother of Jaylen Griffin, a 12-year-old boy who went missing in 2020 and was found dead in 2024.
Roberts had a criminal record, including charges for firing shots at Griffin’s memorial in April 2024, leading to his indictment on multiple charges.
Commissioner’s Remarks
Commissioner Gramaglia acknowledged the complexities of real-life police work, noting that situations often unfold unpredictably despite rigorous training.
He expressed sympathy for the family, stating, “It’s a very sad situation all around.”
This case remains under intense scrutiny as separate investigations continue to uncover more details about the incident.