Crime
Heavy police presence at Walmart on Altamont Ave after reports of shooting
Rotterdam, NY – Local law enforcement, including Rotterdam Police and New York State Troopers, are investigating a reported incident of gunfire Saturday afternoon at the Walmart located at 1320 Altamont Avenue in Schenectady.
Police responded to reports of shots fired in the parking lot of the Walmart store.
An officer at the scene confirmed that no individuals were struck by the gunfire, and there were no reported injuries related to the incident.
The Walmart store was placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. Yellow police tape cordoned off the store’s parking lot entrance on Altamont Avenue.
At least eight police vehicles were observed on Altamont Avenue, with officers actively investigating the situation and ensuring public safety.
Law enforcement officials remain on-site, collecting evidence and reviewing any available surveillance footage to determine the events leading up to the gunfire.
No details regarding potential suspects or motives have been released at this time.
The Walmart store is expected to remain closed during the investigation, and the public is urged to avoid the area until further notice.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Rotterdam Police.
On December 13, 2024, at approximately 10:39 a.m., the DeSoto Police Department received a 911 hang-up call from a residence in the 1000 block of Hunter’s Creek Drive.
Upon reestablishing contact, the caller, identified as 26-year-old Arthur Lee Armstrong, Jr., informed dispatchers that he was armed with “several” weapons and intended to harm police officers.
A second caller later confirmed that Armstrong was at the residence with multiple other occupants and armed with a knife.
DeSoto patrol officers promptly responded to the scene.
Upon their arrival, Armstrong confronted them in the front yard, wielding a knife in each hand.
Ignoring repeated commands to stop and drop his weapons, Armstrong advanced aggressively toward the officers.
As Armstrong continued closing the distance, one officer discharged a single round from a patrol rifle, striking Armstrong in the chest.
Officers quickly disarmed Armstrong and initiated life-saving measures on the scene. Armstrong was then transported to Central Methodist Hospital by DeSoto EMS, where he was pronounced deceased upon arrival.
The DeSoto Police Department requested that the Grand Prairie Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit conduct an independent investigation into the incident.
Additionally, the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Unit dispatched an investigator to provide an independent review of the matter.
In accordance with department policy, the officer who discharged the weapon has been placed on paid administrative leave while these investigations are underway.
The DeSoto Police Department recognizes the significant impact this incident has on the community, as well as the individuals and families involved. A comprehensive investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the event, and the department is committed to maintaining transparency throughout the process.
To provide further details, a press conference is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 16, 2024, at the DeSoto Police Department headquarters. Community members and media are encouraged to attend for updates on the investigation.