Man Fatally Shot by Police Outside Staten Island Diner

Earlier this week, a man with a history of mental health issues was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer outside a busy diner in Staten Island. The incident happened shortly after 8 p.m. at Andrew’s Diner on Hylan Boulevard in Eltingville.

Witnesses reported that the suspect, identified as Jesse Campbell, 44, was threatening patrons with what appeared to be a realistic-looking BB gun. During a confrontation with two off-duty NYPD officers outside the establishment, Campbell allegedly aimed the weapon at them.

Crime scene investigators at a night-time shooting — The scene following the shooting, with investigators on site. Wayne Carrington

One of the officers, a female detective from the Internal Affairs Bureau, responded by firing multiple rounds, hitting Campbell multiple times. He was quickly transported to Staten Island University Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Police footage indicates that officers repeatedly instructed Campbell to drop his weapon before the gunfire erupted. The suspect reportedly told his family earlier that day he intended to be killed by police, leading authorities to believe this was a case of “suicide by cop.”

Andrew's Diner at night with police nearby — Patrol officers and investigators at the scene outside the diner. Wayne Carrington

At the scene, authorities recovered the BB gun, which appeared to be highly realistic. Evidence collected includes a pool of blood and an abandoned baseball cap nearby. The police have not yet released the man’s name publicly.

Community leaders and officials expressed appreciation for the off-duty officer who intervened to protect others. The NYPD has issued a warning about traffic delays and increased police presence in the area while investigations continue.