Gunman killed by police after opening fire at New York State Police barracks in Malta

MALTA, N.Y. (WRGB) — A 69-year-old gunman, identified as David Levine from Malta, was shot and killed by police after he opened fire at the Saratoga State Police barracks on Route 9. The incident occurred around 1:40 p.m. when Levine drove a red truck to the barracks, exited the vehicle, and began shooting at the building with a long gun.

Major Christopher Gilroy, Troop G Commander, said, "Troopers instructed Mr. Levine to drop the firearm. Mr. Levine refused to follow multiple commands and aimed the gun in the direction of the troopers at which time the troopers fired their department-issued firearms fatally striking him."

State police reported that Levine had fired several shots before officers responded. The gunfire was initially mistaken for a car backfiring by local businesses.

Andrew Gaetano, a doctor of physical therapy at Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness, said, "We went outside and we could see at that point through the tree line over there. There was a body on the ground. We didn't know if it was police officer we didn't know what was going on, but at that point, the ambulance was showing up there."

Gaetano expressed shock at the incident, noting the area's reputation for safety. "This is a safe place I mean you know we got trooper barracks the fire station right there in EMTs right there and you can't get safer than that right so this is a safe place coming from this area living in grumping mechanical living in Glen Falls now but I've been here for 12 years. Nothing like this happened," he said.

The road, which was closed earlier, has since reopened. State police have stated that the incident is under investigation and that body cam footage will not be released at this time. More information about the officers involved is expected to be released on Thursday.