Security camera footage has caught the incredible moment a bystander took down an armed gunman running from police on the streets of Manhattan, New York City.
In CCTV footage, the gunman is seen colliding with the pedestrian and then a nearby guard rail. As he staggers to his feet and tries to continue his flight, the bystander grabs his coat just as a pursuing police officer arrives. The gunman, later identified as 39-year-old Jason Fleming, is then seen being handcuffed and taken into custody.
When a witness called 911, the suspect fled the scene with his weapon, sending locals scattering.
With his handgun visible in broad daylight, Fleming ran while police officers followed in hot pursuit until he encountered the pedestrian who blocked his way.
Fleming’s actions “[frightened] numerous New Yorkers, including a child,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, “Thanks to our law enforcement partners and the heroic efforts of a good Samaritan, the defendant was apprehended before he could hurt anyone.”
Fleming was charged with possession of firearms, a felony conviction carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. The good Samaritan remains unnamed.
Homeland Security Special Agent Ivan J. Arvelo expressed pride for his agents’ “rapid apprehension” of the gunman. In conjunction with New York City Police Department, Homeland Security is continuing to investigate the incident, while the unnamed civilian is the hometown hero of the hour.
