A tense confrontation outside a Staten Island diner turned deadly Friday night when an off-duty NYPD officer fatally shot a man who brandished what appeared to be a firearm, as the New York Post reports.

The victim, identified by sources as Jesse Campbell, 44, was shot multiple times after pointing a realistic-looking BB gun at two off-duty officers behind Andrew’s Diner in the Eltingville neighborhood.

The incident unfolded just after 8 p.m. outside Andrew’s Diner, located along Hylan Boulevard. According to police, diners reported a man acting aggressively with a gun near the restaurant. Officers were alerted to the potential threat as the evening crowd filled the area.

Campbell, who reportedly suffered from severe mental health issues, had allegedly expressed intentions earlier in the day to provoke a fatal encounter with police. According to sources, he made comments to his mother and sister indicating that he wanted to be killed by law enforcement.

Behind the diner, Campbell confronted two off-duty NYPD officers, one of whom was a female detective from the Internal Affairs Bureau. He pointed what appeared to be a black handgun at them during the confrontation.

Officers worked to de-escalate before opening fire

The officers at the scene issued repeated verbal commands instructing Campbell to drop the weapon, according to video evidence reviewed by the NYPD. Despite their attempts to de-escalate the volatile situation, Campbell refused to comply.

Feeling their lives were in imminent danger, the Internal Affairs detective opened fire, striking Campbell several times across the body. The weapon he had pointed was later determined to be a hyper-realistic BB gun, recovered at the scene with a piece of tape wrapped around the grip.

Campbell was rushed to Staten Island University Hospital following the shooting. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.

Response praised by officials

Assistant Chief Melissa Eger, speaking at a Friday night news conference, praised the bravery of the officers. “The men and women of the NYPD are never truly off the job,” she said. “Tonight we saw that firsthand. Two off-duty officers bravely ran towards danger and took immediate action.”

She emphasized that the officers attempted to manage what she called “a dangerous and unpredictable situation” before resorting to deadly force. Investigators later confirmed that the gun used by Campbell was not a real firearm, but its appearance was nearly indistinguishable from one.

Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella echoed those sentiments. “It appears that an off-duty member of the NYPD heroically stepped up to keep the public safe, and we are thankful,” said Fossella in a statement acknowledging the incident.

Suspect had history of mental illness, criminal background

Sources indicated that Campbell had a criminal record within the state of New York. His long-documented mental health history added troubling context to the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the encounter was an act of “suicide by cop,” a term used when individuals provoke law enforcement to use deadly force against them.

Detectives at the scene collected evidence well into the night. A black baseball cap lay near a pool of blood behind the diner as officers examined the area where the shooting occurred. Photos released by the NYPD displayed the BB gun close-up, clearly demonstrating its realistic design.

As the investigation continued, the NYPD issued a traffic advisory for expected delays and increased emergency presence in the Eltingville area. Community members expressed concern as the shocking details of the incident circulated through local networks and social media.

Lessons to learn

1. Realistic weapons can trigger real consequences: Even imitation weapons can be perceived as genuine threats in high-pressure situations. Individuals should understand that carrying or displaying such items publicly can have fatal consequences, especially when interacting with law enforcement.

2. Recognizing and addressing mental health issues is vital: This story underscores the critical importance of timely mental health support. If someone reveals intentions to harm themselves or provoke violent responses, families and communities must take those alerts seriously and seek professional help immediately.

3. Law enforcement must always prepare for danger—even when off duty: Police officers, whether on the clock or not, may be called to act in emergencies. This event is a sobering reminder to appreciate the burdens officers face and the swift decisions they must sometimes make to protect lives.

It’s important to note that, despite preventive measures, crime can strike anyone. We must avoid blaming victims and instead focus on improving awareness, resources, and community readiness.

Why This Story Matters

This incident touches on multiple aspects of public safety -- mental health, law enforcement, and gun violence perception. It reminds us of the difficult decisions officers face under pressure and the tragic consequences that can result from untreated mental illness.

The community must analyze these events not only to hold individuals accountable but to assess how resources and interventions could help prevent such crises. It’s a stark call to action for greater support and vigilance at all levels.