David Levine Obituary, Death: Troopers named in Malta barracks shooting as AG launches investigation

David Levine Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified the troopers involved in the recent fatal shooting at the New York State Police barracks in Malta, New York. The incident occurred on April 9 and resulted in the death of 69-year-old David Levine, a resident of Malta.

According to the New York State Police (NYSP), Levine arrived at the Malta barracks armed with a long gun. Officials reported that Levine began firing at the building upon his arrival. Troopers at the scene issued repeated commands for him to put down his weapon. Despite these commands, Levine pointed his firearm at the troopers, prompting them to return fire. Levine was fatally wounded in the exchange.

The three troopers involved in the shooting have been identified as Trooper Eric Brown, Trooper Nicholas Dziamba, and Trooper Joshua Mallard. NYSP provided details about the experience and assignments of each trooper. Trooper Eric Brown is a 19-year veteran of the NYSP and is currently assigned to the Troop G Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit. Trooper Nicholas Dziamba has served for over nine years and is stationed at Troop G in Charlton. Trooper Joshua Mallard is the most recent addition to the NYSP, having joined in April 2024, and he is assigned to the Malta barracks.

During the shooting incident, Troopers Dziamba and Mallard were inside the barracks building when the gunfire began. Trooper Brown, who was nearby, responded immediately to assist. Following standard procedure, all three troopers involved in the shooting have been placed on voluntary leave.

The New York State Attorney General’s Office confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the incident, as required by New York state law whenever a civilian is killed by law enforcement. The investigation aims to review all aspects of the case, including the actions of the troopers and the circumstances surrounding Levine’s behavior leading up to the shooting.

This deadly confrontation was not the only police-involved shooting in Malta within a short time frame. Just one day after the barracks incident, another fatal shooting took place at the Ellsworth Apartments in Malta. In that separate case, 37-year-old Brandon Moore was shot and killed by police. Details about the second incident remain limited, but it added to the heightened concerns in the community regarding recent violence.

As the investigations continue, the New York State Police emphasized that their troopers followed protocol by issuing multiple warnings before using deadly force. The Attorney General’s Office is expected to conduct a thorough and independent review of the incident to ensure accountability and transparency.

Residents of Malta and surrounding areas remain shocked by the two back-to-back fatal shootings. The situation has raised concerns over public safety and sparked conversations about the mental health challenges and motivations that may have contributed to these tragic events.

Further details about the incidents, including findings from the Attorney General’s investigation, are expected to be released in the coming weeks. In the meantime, NYSP assured the public that the investigations will be handled with the utmost seriousness and professionalism.