Body camera video released in Troy man’s death

Body Cam video: Woody Smith

Body cam video from Oct. 13, 2023 shows Troy Police arresting a man who died in custody.

The state Attorney General’s Office released body camera video of an incident in which a man died in Troy Police custody last October.

The incident happened on Oct. 13 at around noon at a residence in Lansingburgh. Police responded to a report of a trespassing in progress, and the suspect, later identified as Woody Johnson, was seen leaving through a first-floor window, police said.

The video shows police putting Johnson in handcuffs and positioning him on his side. Then, he began to show signs of medical distress. One officer removed the handcuffs and then police began to provide medical aid including administering Narcan. They also performed chest compressions until EMS arrived.

He was taken to an area hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

One of the officers showed a Taser but did not fire it.

The New York State Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation has not concluded its review of the incident. The office anticipates releasing an additional statement once the review is concluded.

The city of Troy and Troy Police Department issued a statement regarding the release of the video.

“Mayor Mantello and the Troy Police Department extend their condolences and sympathies to the family & friends of Mr. Smith and to the emergency services personnel who responded that day,” the statement said. “The Mayor and the Troy Police Department remain committed to the transparency of the Troy PD’s operations, afforded by the release of this video. We believe the release of body worn camera video sets forth the Troy Police Department’s resolve in its commitment to balance protection, service and enforcement