Man dies after fleeing NYPD in Manhattan’s Riverside Park; recently completed a work shift.

A recent incident involving a parolee who died after an encounter with the New York Police Department (NYPD) has raised significant questions about policing and the health risks associated with confrontational interactions. The individual, identified as Sheldon Ennis, was reportedly attempting to rebuild his life after being released from nearly three decades in prison. Colleagues at his workplace, the Skyline Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen, expressed shock and sorrow over his sudden demise, emphasizing that he was trying to make positive changes in his life following his November 2023 release.

Ennis, aged 54, collapsed following an encounter with police officers in Riverside Park on June 26, 2025. The officers, engaged in a crime-reduction initiative, confronted him while he was reportedly drinking a beer in the park. According to accounts, Ennis claimed to live nearby but was unable to provide identification. In the face of escalating tension, he attempted to flee, leading to a physical altercation during which he was tackled to the ground. This incident, captured on the body-worn cameras of the involved officers, is currently under review by the NYPD’s Force Investigation Division, as is standard protocol in cases of death in police custody.

Following the takedown, Ennis communicated difficulty breathing and was subsequently transported to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Preliminary reports suggest he suffered a cardiac episode during the encounter. The city Medical Examiner is conducting an autopsy to determine the specific cause of death.

According to police officials who analyzed footage of the incident, the officers’ actions during the apprehension did not appear excessively aggressive. Nonetheless, the circumstances surrounding Ennis’ death have led to expressions of concern among his coworkers and the broader community. They described him as a kind and respectful individual, emphasizing his commitment to his job and significant personal transformation after a long history of incarceration.

Ennis had a complex past that included eight arrests, with charges ranging from drug-related offenses to attempted murder connected to his involvement in a drug trafficking ring during the 1990s. He served approximately 26 years for these convictions, with his parole scheduled to end in 2035.

The NYPD provides training for officers to handle encounters with individuals who may have medical conditions, yet the tragic outcome of this incident demonstrates the potential risks involved. The New York State Attorney General’s office has initiated a preliminary assessment of the case, underscoring the ongoing need for scrutiny surrounding police interactions and the implications for community safety and health. As the investigation unfolds, the tragic death of Sheldon Ennis serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between law enforcement and accountability in protecting the lives and rights of individuals.