Crime
Video shows moments Sydney Wilson fatally shot by Fairfax County officer Peter Liu in Reston
The Fairfax County Police Department has released body camera footage from a tragic incident that occurred last month in Reston, Virginia, resulting in the fatal shooting of a 33-year-old woman.
The footage captures the moments leading up to the shooting of Sydney Wilson, who was reported to be in an agitated state. On September 16, crisis intervention-trained officer Peter Liu responded to Wilson’s apartment on Sunrise Valley Drive after her doctor expressed concerns about her mental health.
Upon arrival, Liu initially interacted with Wilson, who briefly opened her door before closing it and leaving the officer waiting outside for nearly 10 minutes.
When Wilson finally re-emerged, she was armed with a knife and immediately attacked Liu.
The body camera footage shows Liu repeatedly ordering Wilson to back away as she advanced towards him, slashing at him with the knife.
Despite multiple warnings, Wilson persisted in her aggressive behavior, forcing Liu into the hallway.
As Wilson lunged at Liu again, he fired three shots, striking her. The footage also reveals that Liu sustained a wound to his forehead during the struggle, inflicted by Wilson’s knife.
Additional officers arrived at the scene to assist, and Wilson was transported to a hospital where she was pronounced dead.
Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis praised Liu’s actions, describing them as “valiant” and “exhibiting some grace under pressure.”
Davis noted that Liu gave Wilson at least eight verbal warnings before being forced to use deadly force.
Wilson, who was 6’5″ tall and weighed 330 pounds, had a history of mental health issues and prior interactions with law enforcement.
Officer Liu has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of both a criminal and administrative investigation into the incident.
NORRIDGE, Ill. โ A man and woman, both 41 years old, were found dead inside a residence in Norridge on Monday evening, November 2, 2026, in what investigators are treating as an apparent murder-suicide.
The victims were identified as Ashley E. Rivera, 41, of Norridge, and Dean Rivera, 41.
According to preliminary information, Norridge police officers responded to a well-being check at approximately 6:43 p.m. Monday in the 4100 block of Ozanam Avenue.
When officers arrived and entered the residence, they discovered two people deceased inside.
Investigators said preliminary evidence indicates that Dean Rivera allegedly killed Ashley E. Rivera before taking his own life. Authorities have not publicly released the specific circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Police have also not disclosed the cause of death, confirmed the relationship between the two individuals, or provided information about what may have led to the incident.
Authorities believe the incident was isolated and have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the surrounding community.
The deaths have left family members, friends, and others in the Norridge community mourning the loss of two people. As the investigation continues, many questions surrounding the circumstances of the tragedy remain unanswered.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, and loved ones of Ashley and Dean Rivera during this difficult time.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as it becomes available.