ROCHESTER, NY — A violent domestic violence incident turned into a city-wide emergency late Friday night when three Rochester Police Department officers were shot by a suspect with an active warrant and a violent criminal history. The suspect, 38-year-old Eric Davis, was killed during the exchange of gunfire.
At approximately 10:15 p.m. on December 19, officers responded to a domestic disturbance call at 605 Chili Avenue, where Davis was reportedly attempting to break into his ex-girlfriend’s home in violation of an active order of protection. The female victim inside was unharmed, as were her children, but her current boyfriend — a legally armed civilian — was shot multiple times in the upper body.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers encountered Davis outside the home. According to RPD Chief David Smith, Davis immediately began firing at officers and the civilian. Officer 1, with the department for 1.5 years, was struck but has since been discharged from Strong Memorial Hospital thanks to his ballistic vest.
Officers 2 and 3, each with seven years of service, were both seriously wounded during the confrontation — one on Chili Avenue and another later near Thurston Road after Davis fled the scene. Both officers remain hospitalized and have undergone multiple surgeries.
A fourth officer, with six years of service, also returned fire during the encounter but was not injured. She has been placed on administrative assignment per department policy.
Ballistic evidence indicates Davis fired at least seven rounds between the two locations using a .40 caliber Glock pistol, which was found empty at the scene. The civilian victim fired back using a legally owned .30 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun, discharging at least six rounds. Officers administered medical aid to Davis, but he was declared deceased at the scene.
The incident spans two major crime scenes and is still under active investigation. The New York State Attorney General’s Office and RPD’s Professional Standards Section are reviewing the shooting, and body-worn camera footage is expected to be released in accordance with department policy.
Davis had an active misdemeanor warrant for aggravated harassment at the time of the incident. His criminal record includes a 2005 conviction for third-degree burglary. The female victim had an active order of protection against him following threats in July and October, including a reported death threat.
Rochester Police Chief Smith acknowledged the emotional toll of the incident on the department and emphasized the high risk officers face when responding to domestic disputes, which account for over 6,000 calls annually. Domestic calls, along with traffic stops, are among the most dangerous duties for officers.
Community leaders, including Mayor Malik Evans and Willow Domestic Violence Center CEO Megan Deseta, stressed the tragic ripple effects of domestic violence, urging public awareness and stronger systems for survivor safety and offender accountability.
The civilian victim remains hospitalized in serious but non-life-threatening condition.
