By: Richard L. Smith
State officials have released police body-worn camera and surveillance footage connected to a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred in Jersey City last year, according to a statement released by the Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability.
The incident, which remains under investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, resulted in the death of 26-year-old Steven B. Sanchez of Jersey City.
Authorities said the video release follows policies established by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office in 2019 aimed at ensuring transparency in investigations involving police use of deadly force.
Officials confirmed that members of Sanchez’s family were given the opportunity to review the footage before it was made public.
According to investigators, the incident unfolded at approximately 1:22 p.m. on September 5, 2025, along John F. Kennedy Boulevard. Two uniformed Jersey City police officers were traveling southbound in a marked vehicle, while Sgt. Ricardo Reyes was traveling northbound in a separate patrol car.
Authorities said Sgt. Reyes made a U-turn after suspecting that his vehicle may have been fired upon.
A civilian later pointed out an individual, identified as Sanchez, as the person believed to have discharged a weapon.
Moments later, the two officers in the southbound vehicle also turned around and stopped near the intersection of JFK Boulevard and Clinton Avenue.
According to their statements, they exited their vehicle and observed Sanchez holding what appeared to be a handgun. Officers issued commands for him to drop the weapon.
Investigators said Sanchez then pointed the weapon in the direction of officers, prompting Sgt. Reyes to exit his vehicle and exchange gunfire.
Sanchez was struck but continued to fire in the direction of officers before running toward Sgt. Reyes, leading to a physical struggle.
Police were able to take Sanchez into custody and immediately began rendering medical aid until emergency responders arrived.
He was transported to Jersey City Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 8:45 p.m.
Officials said Sgt. Reyes sustained a non-life-threatening injury during the encounter. No other officers or civilians were hurt.
A compressed air pistol, along with multiple projectiles believed to have been fired from the weapon, was recovered at the scene.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.