Officer-Involved Shooting in Malta: A Community in Shock

The quiet town of Malta, New York, was shattered on April 10, 2025, by an officer-involved shooting at the Ellsworth Commons Apartments. What began as a response to a domestic dispute quickly escalated, leaving one man dead and the community grappling with questions and concerns. This comprehensive report delves into the details of the incident, the individuals involved, and the aftermath as it unfolds.

At approximately 8:53 a.m. on that fateful Thursday, Saratoga County 911 received a call reporting a physical domestic dispute at the Ellsworth Apartment Complex, located at 2113 Route 9. Troopers and Saratoga County Deputies swiftly responded, arriving at the scene around 9:04 a.m. What they encountered was a situation far more complex than a typical domestic disturbance.

Upon arrival, law enforcement officials were met with resistance. An individual, later identified as 37-year-old Brandon R. Moore, who resided in the apartment unit, refused to cooperate with the authorities. Instead, he barricaded himself inside, raising concerns and prompting a more cautious approach. Adding to the tension, law enforcement was informed that Moore might have access to firearms within the apartment, significantly escalating the potential danger.

The situation demanded a delicate approach. Law enforcement officers initiated negotiations with Moore, attempting to de-escalate the situation and persuade him to surrender peacefully. For over an hour, they engaged in dialogue, hoping to reach a resolution without resorting to violence. However, their efforts proved unsuccessful, and the situation took a turn for the worse.

At approximately 10:37 a.m., the standoff reached a critical juncture. Moore emerged from the apartment, brandishing what appeared to be a handgun. The officers, facing a potential deadly threat, issued multiple commands, ordering Moore to drop the weapon. He defiantly refused, aiming the firearm at the State Police members and Deputies. In response to the imminent danger, the Troopers and Deputies discharged their department-issued firearms, fatally striking Moore.

The Aftermath and Investigation

The immediate aftermath of the shooting was marked by a flurry of activity. Two Troopers sustained minor injuries during the incident, receiving treatment at the scene. Investigators quickly secured the area, initiating a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The weapon displayed by Moore was examined, revealing a startling discovery: it was a CO2 powered BB pistol, found to be loaded at the time of the incident. This revelation added a layer of complexity to the already tragic event, raising questions about the perceived threat and the use of force.

In the interest of public safety, the Ellsworth apartment building #2 was evacuated as a precaution prior to the shooting. However, the situation was further complicated by an unforeseen event: the activation of the building’s sprinkler system. This malfunction resulted in widespread flooding, rendering an unknown number of apartments uninhabitable and requiring extensive mitigation efforts. The combination of the shooting and the flooding created a chaotic and distressing situation for the residents of the Ellsworth Apartments.

In accordance with protocol for officer-involved shootings, the Attorney General’s Office was notified and responded to the scene. Their involvement ensures an independent and impartial review of the incident, promoting transparency and accountability. The New York State Police expressed their gratitude to Sheriff Zurlo and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office for their invaluable assistance at the scene, highlighting the importance of interagency cooperation in managing such critical events.

The investigation into the officer-involved shooting is ongoing, with authorities meticulously gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to piece together a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired. The focus is on determining whether the use of force was justified, adhering to established legal standards and departmental policies. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in shaping future protocols and training for law enforcement officers.

Identifying the Officers Involved

On April 12, 2025, further details were released, identifying the State Police members involved in the shooting. Sergeant Station Commander Michael Musci, a veteran with over 10 years of service, Investigator Michael Lenaghen, with more than 12 years of experience, Investigator Cameron Missenis, a three-year member, and Trooper Richard Ahigian, who joined the State Police in October 2023, were named as the officers who discharged their weapons. All Troopers are currently on voluntary leave, a standard procedure following such incidents. Trooper Ahigian and another Trooper who did not discharge a firearm sustained minor injuries and are recovering.

With the permission of Sheriff Michael Zurlo, the names of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office members involved were also released. Deputy Sheriff Ramon Rodriguez Jr., a six-year veteran, and Deputy Sheriff Clayton Wren, who transferred to the Sheriff’s Office in December 2024, were identified as the deputies involved. Both Deputy Sheriffs are also on voluntary leave.

Community Impact and Moving Forward

The officer-involved shooting in Malta has had a profound impact on the community, raising questions about police tactics, mental health, and the use of force. It has also sparked discussions about the availability of mental health resources and the need for improved crisis intervention training for law enforcement officers. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to volatile situations and the importance of de-escalation techniques.

As the investigation continues and the community grapples with the aftermath, there is a collective desire for transparency, accountability, and healing. The incident has underscored the need for open dialogue between law enforcement and the community, fostering trust and understanding. Moving forward, it is essential to address the underlying issues that contribute to such tragedies, including mental health, domestic violence, and access to resources.

The officer-involved shooting in Malta is a complex and multifaceted event that demands careful consideration. By examining the details of the incident, the individuals involved, and the broader context, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and complexities of law enforcement and work towards building a safer and more just community for all.

A Community Reflects and Rebuilds

The events of April 10, 2025, will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the town of Malta. As the investigation progresses and the community begins to heal, it is crucial to remember the human cost of this tragedy and to work together to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. This requires a commitment to open communication, collaboration, and a willingness to address the underlying issues that contribute to violence and conflict. The road to recovery may be long, but by working together, the community can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.