Bodycam footage released in ongoing investigation of Woody Smith's death in Troy Police custody

Body camera footage was released in a special investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office involving the Troy Police Department. A man died shortly after being taken into custody in October 2023.

The video, which was redacted based on the attorney general office’s policy, shows police responding to a trespassing complaint in Lansingburgh. The video shows officers asking suspect Woody Smith to get on the ground and start to handcuff him. The footage shows Smith saying “I can’t breathe” several times.

Officers ask him to get on his side so he can breathe better, call for an ambulance, and take him out of the handcuffs once he starts showing signs of medical distress. Police can also be heard discussing Narcan, which is used to reverse an overdose.

Smith was taken to a hospital, where he died. Police initially said officers displayed a taser but didn’t use it. Video also shows officers arriving with firearms drawn.

The Troy Police Department said the released footage ends when officers start giving lifesaving measures such as CPR and Narcan. The city’s mayor and police chief said they remain committed to being transparent and offered their condolences to Smith’s family.

The AG’s office is still investigating. The officers involved remain on active duty.