NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards Charges Into Danger, Stops Islamist Attack [WATCH]

NYPD Assistant Chief Aaron Edwards discussed the department’s response during a recent incident that drew widespread attention online, describing how officers adapted to changing circumstances while pursuing a suspect and emphasizing the department’s commitment to protecting New Yorkers.

Edwards spoke about the moment after an image from the incident circulated widely on social media. The photo, which showed him in pursuit during the event, quickly went viral and became a focal point of discussion surrounding the NYPD’s response.

According to Edwards, the situation required officers to adjust quickly and move from one approach to another as events unfolded.

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“In that moment, you know, we had to pivot from one type of policing to a different type of policing,” Edwards said.

He said the transition between those approaches occurred quickly as officers worked to apprehend the suspect.

“And I think the way that we transition was, was was really good in terms of going viral.”

Edwards also referenced the moment captured in the widely shared photograph, noting that it showed him clearing an obstacle while continuing the pursuit.

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“First off, I’m happy that I cleared that barrier, right?” Edwards said. “Imagine if I fell, you know.”

He explained that the actions captured in the image were part of an immediate effort to reach a suspect during the incident.

“But to me, it was just instant,” Edwards said. “I’m trying, I’m trying, I’m trying to get the bad guy, you know.”

Edwards described the situation as an active pursuit in which officers were focused on stopping the individual involved.

“You know, I was in, I was in real pursuit, trying to get him.”

The photograph quickly spread online after the incident, drawing attention to the officer’s actions. Edwards said he was aware of the attention but wanted the focus to remain on the broader work performed by the department that day.

“And just, you know, the picture going viral, you know, I don’t want that picture to be about me,” Edwards said.

Instead, he said the moment should represent the work of the entire department during the incident.

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