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Major Eugene J. Staniszewski
Troop A Commander
On July 10, 2022 the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of SP Machias arrested Thomas Wright, 20 of Machias, NY for Menacing 2nd degree.
On July 9, 2022, at 9:45 p.m., Troopers out of SP Machias responded to a possible suicidal subject in the area of Reynolds Road in the town of Machias. Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Department assisted and located the subject later identified as Wright with an Unmanned Aerial System (drone). Law Enforcement approached Wright who was holding a baseball bat and was given commands to drop the bat. Wright dropped the bat and drew what appeared to be a black pistol at the Trooper and Deputy giving commands. The Trooper discharged their Division issued firearm striking Wright. Wright was taken into custody and immediate medical aid was rendered. Wright was transported to Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) and treated for a single non-life-threatening gunshot wound and a mental health evaluation. The pistol Wright pointed at law enforcement was later identified as an air soft pistol (pictured). Wright was also in possession of a second air soft pistol and a kitchen knife.
Wright was issued an appearance ticket for the town of Machias Court for a later date in August.
NYSP Forensic Identification Unit, Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office and the Cattaraugus County District Attorney’s Office assisted in this investigation.
