Man Dies in Police Custody Following Attempted Escape in Riverside Park

A 54-year-old man died after fleeing from police officers in Riverside Park, where authorities allege he was consuming alcohol illegally. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Friday at the intersection of West 137th Street and Riverside Drive.

Witnesses report that officers approached the man after noticing him drinking in the park. According to police sources, he fled the scene upon being instructed to stop. During the chase, officers found that he was carrying a knife of unknown size, which may have contributed to his decision to run.

After a brief pursuit, police managed to catch up with him. At that point, he appeared to be having difficulty breathing. Police called an ambulance, but despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead after going into cardiac arrest.

Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of his death. The NYPD’s Force Investigation Division has launched an inquiry into the case.