Town of Wirt, NY–On March 24, 2024, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation out of SP Amity arrested Johnathan T. Russell, 40 with no known address for Attempted Murder of a Police Officer- 3 counts, Attempted Murder – 2 counts, Robbery 1st, Burglary 3^rd, Criminal Use of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2^nd, Reckless Endangerment 1^st, Assault 2^nd, Resisting Arrest and Obstruction of Governmental Administration.

On March 24, 2024, at approximately 2:00 P.M., Troopers out of SP Amity were conducting area interviews on State Route 275 in the town of Wirt regarding a burglary in the area. Troopers identified footprints in the snow and contacted the homeowner in Florida. No person was supposed to be at the house, and no one had permission to be on the property.

Troopers approached the detached garage where the footprints led and were later identified as Russell’s. Russell refused to exit but was communicating audibly. Troopers got permission to use forced entry and upon gaining entry to the garage, Russell fired a single gunshot from inside the garage.

Troopers backed off and Russell fled into the wooded area behind the property carrying a weapon.

Troopers set up a perimeter and positively identified Russell. Russell was observed on County Route 8 in a vehicle that he had just stolen at gunpoint. Troopers were able to force Russell to park the vehicle. Russell fled into the wooded area where he was taken into custody.

Russell was arraigned in the town of Wirt Court and remanded to the Allegany County Jail without bail. The felony hearing has been scheduled for March 27^th.

The original NYSP Police Report listed the charges as Murder. That was not accurate. Russell is charged with Attempted Murder.