Syracuse, New York – A New York State Police investigator was injured Wednesday morning while assisting federal and local law enforcement officers during the execution of an arrest warrant in Syracuse. Authorities say the suspect resisted arrest and assaulted the investigator with a knife before being taken into custody.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred during a coordinated law enforcement operation involving multiple agencies working together to apprehend a fugitive wanted on a violent felony charge. According to information released by the New York State Police, the injured investigator was assigned to the Troop D Felony Warrant Squad and was also detailed to the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force.
The operation underscores the risks faced daily by officers tasked with locating and arresting individuals wanted for serious crimes, particularly when suspects are believed to be armed.
Timeline of Events
At approximately 8:15 a.m. on January 29, 2026, law enforcement officers arrived at 2000 Lodi Street, Apartment B, Syracuse, to execute an arrest warrant. The warrant targeted Cedric Cundiff, 67, who was wanted in Massachusetts on a charge of Robbery in the First Degree stemming from an alleged gunpoint robbery of a store.
Officers from the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Parole were also present to assist with the arrest.
Details From Law Enforcement Officials
As officers attempted to take Cundiff into custody, he reportedly barricaded himself inside a bedroom within the apartment. A State Police investigator, positioned behind a protective shield, attempted to make entry into the room as part of the arrest effort.
During that attempt, Cundiff suddenly attacked, slashing the investigator’s hand with a knife. Law enforcement officers immediately responded, deploying a Taser to subdue the suspect. Authorities confirmed that Cundiff was taken into custody without further incident following the assault.
Injuries and Medical Response
The injured investigator was transported to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse for medical treatment. Hospital staff treated the investigator for multiple lacerations to the hand and a fractured finger sustained during the confrontation.
Officials have not released the investigator’s name but confirmed that the injuries were non-life-threatening. The investigator is expected to recover, though the extent of any time away from duty has not been disclosed.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Suspect: Cedric Cundiff, 67
- Time of incident: 8:15 a.m., January 29, 2026
- Location: 2000 Lodi Street, Apartment B, Syracuse
- Original charge: Robbery in the First Degree (Massachusetts)
- Injury: Lacerations and fractured finger
- Hospital: Upstate University Hospital
Additional Context on Fugitive Task Force Operations
The U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force routinely partners with state and local agencies to track and arrest individuals wanted for violent offenses. These operations often involve high-risk scenarios, particularly when suspects have a history of using weapons.
Law enforcement officials note that barricaded suspects present a heightened danger, requiring careful coordination, protective equipment, and specialized tactics to minimize harm to officers, suspects, and the public.
Ongoing Investigation and Possible Charges
The investigation into Wednesday’s incident remains ongoing. Authorities indicated that Cundiff is expected to face additional charges related to the assault on the investigator, on top of the original robbery warrant from Massachusetts.
Prosecutors will review the case to determine the full scope of charges once all reports and evidence have been finalized.
Conclusion
Wednesday morning’s incident highlights the unpredictable and dangerous nature of arrest warrant operations, even when conducted by experienced, multi-agency teams. While the suspect is now in custody, the injured investigator’s experience serves as a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers take in the course of protecting the public.
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