The Bergen County Prosecutor's Office has taken over the investigation into a fatal police-involved shooting in Paterson last week
According to a media release, the office has taken over the investigation as part of the New Jersey attorney general's guidelines for investigating a police-involved shooting, which requires that there be no conflict of interest between the investigating authority and the officers involved in the shooting.
According to the prosecutor, Paterson police officers were patrolling near Summer and Cedar streets Friday afternoon when they heard what sounded like a speeding car.
The officers then saw Ismael Miranda, 36, who appeared to be shooting at the car as it fled, according to the prosecutor.
The release then says that the officers approached Miranda and identified themselves as police officers. Both officers subsequently fired their guns, striking Miranda, who was pronounced dead at the scene. A .380-caliber handgun was recovered at the scene, according to the release.
The Bergen County Prosecutor's Office is asking the public's help identifying the vehicle that fled prior to the shooting. It is described as a red- or maroon-colored Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna minivan. Officials say that the vehicle may have damage due to Miranda shooting at it.
Anyone who may have any information about the vehicle or driver is asked to call the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office tip line at 201-226-5532.