Syracuse, New York – A New York State Police officer was injured Thursday morning after being attacked with a knife during the arrest of a Massachusetts fugitive wanted on a violent felony warrant. Authorities say the incident unfolded during a joint operation involving federal and state law enforcement officers in Syracuse.
The suspect, identified as Cedric Cundiff, 67, was taken into custody following a brief but violent confrontation inside a residential apartment. The injured officer was treated at a local hospital and is expected to recover.
Incident Overview
According to New York State Police, the arrest occurred at an apartment building on Lodi Street in Syracuse during an early-morning operation led by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. Officers were attempting to apprehend Cundiff, who was wanted in Massachusetts on a warrant related to a serious robbery charge.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the situation escalated quickly when the suspect resisted arrest and used a weapon against officers attempting to take him into custody.
Timeline of Events
Police say the operation began at approximately 8:15 a.m. on Thursday when officers arrived at the Syracuse apartment to execute the warrant. As officers moved in to arrest Cundiff, he reportedly retreated into a bedroom and barricaded himself inside, refusing to surrender.
A New York State Police officer, positioned behind a protective shield, attempted to enter the bedroom to secure the suspect. At that point, authorities say the suspect became violent.
Details From Police and Officials
New York State Police spokesman Sgt. Jack Keller confirmed that the suspect attacked the officer with a knife during the encounter.
“A state police officer behind a protective shield was trying to enter the room when the suspect struck and slashed the officer’s hand with a knife,” police said.
Following the attack, officers deployed a Taser, which successfully subdued Cundiff. He was then taken into custody without further incident, according to police.
The injured trooper was transported to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, where medical staff treated him for multiple cuts to his hand as well as a fractured finger.
“The officer was treated for several cuts to the hand and a fractured finger,” police said.
Key Facts of the Case
- Suspect: Cedric Cundiff, 67
- Location: Lodi Street, Syracuse, New York
- Time: Around 8:15 a.m., Thursday
- Injury: Cuts to the hand and fractured finger
- Weapon Used: Knife
- Original Charge: Robbery in the first degree in Massachusetts
- Agencies Involved: U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, New York State Police
Authorities noted that Cundiff was wanted in Massachusetts in connection with an armed robbery of a store, a charge that carries significant prison time if convicted.
Additional information about multi-agency fugitive operations can be found through the New York State Police public updates and official statements.
Additional Charges Expected
Police confirmed that Cundiff is expected to face additional charges related to the knife attack on the officer. Those charges are likely to be filed in New York and may include assault on a police officer and weapon-related offenses.
The suspect remains in custody as legal proceedings move forward, and coordination between New York and Massachusetts authorities is ongoing regarding extradition.
Public Safety and Officer Risk
Incidents like this highlight the risks faced by law enforcement officers during fugitive arrests, particularly when suspects are wanted for violent crimes. Even with protective equipment and coordinated planning, officers can face sudden and unpredictable threats.
Officials continue to emphasize the importance of public cooperation, urging anyone with information about wanted individuals to report tips safely and anonymously through law enforcement channels.
Conclusion
The arrest of Cedric Cundiff ended a dangerous confrontation that left a New York State Police officer injured but prevented further harm. Authorities say the quick response by officers helped bring the situation under control and ensured the suspect was taken into custody.
The injured officer is recovering, and the suspect now faces multiple felony charges across state lines as the investigation continues.
If you have information related to fugitive cases or similar incidents in your area, law enforcement encourages you to report it through official channels. Share your experiences in the comments below.
