Off-Duty Boston Officer Shoots Knife-Wielding Attacker in Chick-fil-A

BOSTON — A man is dead following a shooting involving an off-duty Boston police officer Saturday evening at a Chick-fil-A in the city’s Back Bay neighborhood. The incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. when the officer, who was inside the fast-food restaurant, witnessed two individuals fleeing from an assailant armed with a knife.

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox reported that the officer quickly identified himself and ordered the knife-wielding attacker to drop his weapon. However, the man failed to comply, leading the officer to fire his weapon and strike the assailant.

The man was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The officer sustained no injuries but was taken to the hospital as a precaution.

In the aftermath of the shooting, several witnesses described the chaos that ensued, with many fleeing the scene and expressing shock. “I couldn’t believe that there’s been a shooting around here,” one man told NBC10 Boston. “It honestly just makes me question the general safety of Boston,” added local resident Amara Nweke.

The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, led by District Attorney Kevin Hayden, is currently overseeing the investigation into the shooting. Hayden noted that investigators have gathered statements from numerous witnesses but believe additional individuals may have been involved prior to the attack.

<p“Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious or may have been part of the situation leading up to the incident is encouraged to come forward," Hayden stated. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding areas to gain further insights into the events that transpired.

Boston Police Commissioner Cox extended condolences to the family of the deceased, acknowledging the tragic loss. “We don’t look for loss of life. Our condolences go to the individual who was killed tonight,” he remarked. “We’re proud of the police officers who activate themselves, whether on duty or off, to try to save lives.”

Mayor Michelle Wu announced that trauma services are available through the city for those affected by the incident.

As police continue to investigate, Boylston Street remains closed between Clarendon and Dartmouth streets, with additional officers on scene to manage the situation. The Boston Police Homicide Unit is actively involved in the investigation.