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Coverage of Emergency Scenes & Breaking News In The City of Troy, NY & The Capital Region. All photos and videos by Sidewinder Photography are copyrighted.

If you share or reposted, please give the proper credit to Sidewinder Photography. Any Content not shot by us comes from official press releases or trusted followers who have given us permission to share.

25/06/2025

Please Help Spread the word!

Very important announcement following up to one of our stories that we have been covering about the Ambulance crisis in the Town of Brunswick.

24/06/2025

Watervliet Police Make Swift Arrest After Home Found Stripped of Plumbing and Electrical Systems

WATERVLIET — A 44-year-old Watervliet man is behind bars after police say he burglarized a home and stripped it of its plumbing, heating, and electrical systems in a brazen daytime theft.

On June 18, 2025, around 4:30 p.m., Watervliet Police officers responded to a report of a residence with an open rear door. The property owner told police the door was not left open, prompting an immediate investigation. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the door was ajar and observed scattered belongings in the backyard.

After ensuring the residence was unoccupied and safe, officers helped the homeowner assess the situation. They discovered that the home had been extensively burglarized — with vital infrastructure including plumbing, heating, and electrical systems completely removed. Additional personal property was also reported stolen.

Neighbors informed officers that a man had recently been seen mowing the lawn and appearing to clean up the property. He was reportedly observed walking from a nearby location. Acting on those tips, Watervliet detectives canvassed the surrounding area and spotted stolen items in a neighboring yard. Investigators secured surveillance footage which led them to quickly identify a suspect.

On June 19, Watervliet detectives arrested Jesse W. Kacensky, 44, of Watervliet. He was charged with Burglary in the 2nd Degree (Class C Felony), Grand Larceny in the 3rd Degree (Class D Felony), and Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree (Class D Felony). Kacensky was arraigned in Watervliet City Court and remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility.

Police praised alert neighbors and the community’s willingness to speak up, crediting those actions with helping bring the case to a swift resolution.

“This incident is a powerful reminder of how valuable community involvement is in keeping our neighborhoods safe,” the department said in a statement. “If you see something suspicious, say something.”

Non-emergency reports can be made to Watervliet Police at 518-270-3833. For emergencies or active crimes, residents are urged to call 911.

22/06/2025

Two Dogs Rescued From A Second Alarm Fire In Rensselaer
Rensselaer, NY

On May 27, 2025, at 2:48 PM, the City of Rensselaer's Fire Department along with Mohawk Ambulance was dispatched to 35 Glen Street for multiple calls for a working structure fire, the callers did not know if the house was evacuated. The chief called in route to the scene and arrived on scene with heavy fire and smoke showing from the first floor of the structure and immediately transmitted the second alarm bringing the Defreestville Fire Department for the rapid intervention crew, Clinton Heights Fire Department, and East Greenbush Fire Department to the scene. Firefighters quickly deployed a inch and three-quarter hand line to the front door, and Rensselaer firefighters made an aggressive push inside of the structure as additional firefighters made their way to the second floor and third floor to clear the structure and make sure there was no one inside of the building.

Firefighters on the first floor of the structure knocked down the fire within a few minutes and notified command of the conditions on the first floor were not favorable. The Defreestville Fire Department arrived on scene and set up their rapid intervention crew in front of the building and began to conduct a quick walk around of the structure. Additional resources from the Clinton Heights Fire Department and the East Greenbush Fire Department arrived on scene and firefighters made their way inside of the structure to conduct a secondary search and overhaul the first floor. As they were conducting a secondary search of the structure they discovered the first dog on the floor above the fire and brought the dog outside to be evaluated. Command requested Mohawk Ambulance to come up to the scene as they had a patient that needed to be evaluated. Firefighters continued to work on the first floor conducting overhaul knocking down all of the remaining hotspots.

Firefighters on the floors above continued to conduct a secondary search and discovered a puppy and brought it outside to be evaluated and given oxygen. Additional firefighters continue to conduct extensive overhaul and firefighters on the floors above the fire notified command that they had no extension. Firefighters on scene continue to conduct extensive overhaul of the first floor for an extended period of time. Fire Investigator’s arrived on scene and began to conduct their investigation into what caused the fire.

One injury did occur, but that individual was evaluated by Mohawk Ambulance. Both dogs were taken care of on scene by members from the East Greenbush Fire Department and Rensselaer Fire Department. Due to the rapid response of the Rensselaer Fire Department the fire was brought under control quickly before it could spread to any other portion of the building due to their aggressive tactics. At this time no determination of the cause of the fire has been released publicly.

22/06/2025

Shaker Road Fire Department Handles A Bedroom Fire

Around 9:40PM on June 21, 2025, The Shaker Road Fire Department along with mutual aid was dispatched to 12 Rodgers Driver for a reported structure fire. Police units arrived on scene and notified the incoming units that they had a smoke condition pushing from the structure. Firefighters arrived on scene within minutes of the dispatch and was able to locate the source of the fire and quickly knock it down and bring the incident under control. Firefighters conducted ventilation of the home and the Town of Colonie Fire Services are currently conducting their investigation into the fire. No injuries have been reported.

21/06/2025

Update: The Road Has Reopened

Road Closure Due To An Accident Involving A Patrol Car

Currently at the intersection of 113th Street & 5th Avenue is closed in the City of Troy for a car in to a house after an accident with a patrol car. Use caution in the area.

Photo By Nicky Humphrey

20/06/2025

Working Structure Fire On River Street
Troy, NY

The city of Troy’s Fire Department responded to 761 River Street for a reported structure fire. On arrival engine four had nothing showing from the exterior of the building. Firefighters began to investigate the smoke condition inside of the home and discovered they had a fire in the exterior portion of the wall. Firefighters opened up the wall of the structure and knocked down the fire.

No further extension into any other portion of the house was found. The Red Cross was contacted for the homeowners. No injuries were reported and the fire department went back into service a short time later.

20/06/2025

Raid Leads to Major Narcotics Bust in Cohoes; Murder Suspect Arrested

On Wednesday, June 18th, at approximately 1:55 p.m., the U.S. Marshals Task Force, in cooperation with the Cohoes Police Department, executed a high-risk search warrant at 46 Columbia Street, Apartment 2. The target of this investigation, Mikel Hackett, 39, was successfully apprehended without incident. Hackett, a resident of Syracuse, was wanted by authorities in Syracuse on charges of Second-Degree Murder and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Loaded Firearm).

Following Hackett’s arrest, detectives from the Cohoes Police Department conducted an extensive search of the premises, uncovering a significant cache of narcotics and illegal weaponry. Items seized included a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P Shield 9mm handgun, 43.6 grams of fentanyl, 12.9 grams of co***ne, 6.8 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, and a small quantity (0.3 grams) of methamphetamine.

Hackett was promptly transferred into the custody of Syracuse Detectives to face the existing murder and weapons charges. Meanwhile, the Cohoes Police Department has indicated additional charges related to the recovered narcotics and firearm are pending.

The joint operation highlights ongoing collaborative efforts among local and federal agencies to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in the region.

19/06/2025

Gruesome Triple Murder in Grafton

GRAFTON, NY – June 18, 2025 – A quiet rural road in Rensselaer County turned into the scene of a horrific murder on Wednesday evening, after a man allegedly opened fire at a residence.

At approximately 6:35 p.m., the New York State Police and Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 385 County Route 85 in the Town of Grafton for a reported shots fired incident. The initial 911 caller reported that someone had been shot and was in urgent need of police assistance.

Law enforcement officers from across the county rushed to the area, staging nearby as they prepared to tactically approach the home. Once enough units had arrived, officers advanced cautiously and took up positions around the property.

A man emerged from the residence holding what appeared to be a long gun. Officers gave commands for him to drop the weapon, which he ultimately did with the utilization of a taser. The suspect was taken into custody without further incident after a brief standoff.

Upon securing the scene, officers discovered multiple victims, including one individual found deceased in the driveway. A full search of the home led to the discovery of additional two individuals also deceased. The roadway was shut down in all directions due to the severity of the scene, and additional resources were requested to assist in processing the residence.

Grafton Fire Department, Grafton Ambulance, Petersburgh Ambulance on scene. Rensselaer County MD 353 Was on scene. Taconic Valley ambulance was on standby. Hoosick Valley Ambulances was in-route for ALS due to no other ALS being available in Rensselaer County.

The suspect, identified as Joshua Fowler, was arrested and charged with Murder in the First Degree, Murder (Intentional), and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree—all felony charges. He was remanded to the Rensselaer County Jail pending further legal proceedings. Previously there had been numerous domestic incidences at this home. State police are still working to determine motive on the triple murder.

The victims of the triple murder are all family members including Whitney Fowler, Wilson Fowler, and Anita Crandall.

18/06/2025

Juvenile Arrested After Officer Assaulted During Disturbance at Clinton Park in Watervliet

WATERVLIET, NY – A large disturbance at Clinton Park on the evening of June 12, 2025, escalated into violence, resulting in the arrest of three juveniles and the injury of a Watervliet Police officer. The incident, which drew a response from multiple law enforcement agencies, is being described by authorities as another troubling example of growing hostility toward police.

At approximately 5:30 p.m., Watervliet Police officers responded to a report of a group fight at Clinton Park. Upon arrival, officers located a male juvenile who reported being assaulted by several individuals who punched and kicked him while he was on the ground. A short time later, an officer observed a group believed to be involved in the incident at a nearby McDonald’s. When the officer attempted to approach them, a 16-year-old male became confrontational, allegedly issued threats, spat at the officer, and struck the officer in the face with a closed fist, causing minor injuries.

As officers attempted to place the 16-year-old into custody, two additional juveniles—a 15-year-old and another 16-year-old—reportedly interfered with the arrest, prompting a request for mutual aid from neighboring police agencies to help disperse the growing and unruly crowd.

The 16-year-old male was charged with Assault in the Second Degree (Class D Felony), Harassment in the Second Degree (Violation), Resisting Arrest (Class A Misdemeanor), and Obstruction of Governmental Administration (Class A Misdemeanor). The two other juveniles were each charged with Resisting Arrest and Obstruction, both Class A Misdemeanors. All three were issued appearance tickets to Albany County Family Court and released to the custody of their guardians.

“This incident represents the increasing vile behavior and pure disregard for law enforcement and demonstrates a troubling lack of respect for other members of our community,” said Watervliet Police Chief William M. Rice. “The behavior we are witnessing from juveniles is becoming increasingly alarming, yet the punishment these individuals face is almost nonexistent. When young people believe they can assault police officers and interfere with lawful arrests without meaningful consequences, it emboldens further criminal behavior and puts our entire community at risk. Let me be clear: an assault on our officers will absolutely not be tolerated, nor will any assault on any member of our community.”

17/06/2025

14-Year-Old Charged with Attempted Murder Released on Electronic Monitoring After Violent Stabbing in Watervliet

A 14-year-old girl from Watervliet has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing another juvenile multiple times during a large altercation in the city. The incident occurred on June 12, 2025, at approximately 4:00 PM, when Watervliet Police responded to reports of a group fight in the area of 13th Street and 2nd Avenue. Upon arrival, officers located two juveniles with injuries—one who had been pepper sprayed and another who had sustained multiple stab wounds. Both were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The stabbing victim’s injuries were not life-threatening, and they are expected to recover.

Following a swift investigation, police determined that the stabbing had been carried out by a female juvenile who attacked the victim with a knife in a manner described by authorities as posing a serious risk of death or substantial bodily harm. The suspect was identified and taken into custody the following day, on June 13. The 14-year-old was formally charged with Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree (Class A Felony), Attempted Assault in the 1st Degree (Class B Felony), and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 4th Degree (Class A Misdemeanor).

Despite the severity of the charges, the suspect was arraigned in Albany County Family Court and released to the supervision of the Albany County Probation Department with electronic monitoring. The decision to release her has drawn concern from the Watervliet Police Department. Chief William M. Rice issued a strong statement expressing frustration over the outcome, saying, “While we are grateful the victim is recovering, it is concerning releasing a juvenile back into the community so quickly after allegedly committing such a heinous act. When a 14-year-old uses a knife to repeatedly stab another child with clear intent to cause serious harm or death, this isn’t a typical juvenile offense—this is attempted murder. The fact that electronic monitoring is considered adequate supervision for someone who allegedly tried to kill another person sends a deeply troubling message.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Watervliet Police Department at (518) 270-3825.

16/06/2025

Aggressive Fire Tactics By Troy Firefighters Brings 6th Avenue House Fire Under Control In 11 Minutes
Troy, NY

On May 28, 2025, at 6:19 AM, the dispatchers at the Rensselaer County Emergency Communication Center transmitted the alarm of fire for 1022 6th Avenue. Engine six, engine three, engine two, truck one, truck two, the rescue squad, medic four, and the battalion chief was dispatched to the scene. The caller reported fire and smoke coming from the building's basement. Engine six arrived on scene with the two-story wood frame structure with smoke showing from the second floor and transmitted the signal thirty for a working structure fire.

With fire pushing from the basement window, and additional units quickly arriving on scene, firefighters quickly conducted a primary search of the home to make sure nobody was inside. Firefighters from engine six deployed an inch and three-quarter hand line to the basement and made an aggressive push to the seat of the fire. Firefighters from the truck company quickly arrived on scene and deployed ground ladders to the delta side of the structure and engine sixes officer requested the next due engine company to establish the water supply on scene. Firefighters on the truck company checked the roof for extension, as firefighters on the first floor and second floor checked for extension.

Firefighters in the basement notified command that they had the fire completely knocked down and were beginning overhaul. Within eleven minutes firefighters had the fire completely under control. Command had firefighters on the upper floors begin to open up windows to vent the structure as they had a heavy smoke condition throughout the building due to the balloon frame construction. Firefighters on the roof notified command that they only had light smoke coming from the scuttle. Firefighters conducted extensive overhaul in the basement while fire Investigator’s worked to determine the cause of the fire. No injuries were reported, and firefighters went back into service later in the morning.

12/06/2025

Troy Police Close Out Another Shooting Case with Attempted Murder Charges

TROY, NY – Troy Police detectives have arrested a Hempstead man in connection with a shooting incident from last year, charging him with attempted murder and other offenses.

On May 29, 2024, Troy Police patrol units responded swiftly to reports of a shooting near 6th Avenue and Middleburgh Street. Officers discovered a male victim with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, immediately administered medical aid, and secured the area, allowing Troy Fire Department medics to provide further treatment and transport the victim to a local hospital.

An intensive investigation, led by Troy Police Detectives and supported by Evidence Technicians, resulted in the ex*****on of a search warrant and the collection of critical evidence. The Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office presented the case to a Grand Jury, resulting in an indictment.

On June 11, 2025, Troy Police Detectives arrested 39-year-old Jumar Tucker of Hempstead, NY, at the Nassau County Correctional Facility, where he was incarcerated on unrelated charges. Tucker was arraigned in Rensselaer County Court on charges including Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree, Assault in the 2nd Degree, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd Degree. He was subsequently remanded back to Nassau County Correctional Facility.

This arrest emphasizes the Troy Police Department’s ongoing commitment to addressing gun violence, especially pertinent as June marks Gun Violence Awareness Month. This month highlights the severe impacts gun violence has on individuals, families, and communities.

The Troy Police Department continues to rely heavily on community cooperation in combating firearm-related crimes. Anyone with information regarding gun violence is urged to reach out confidentially via the Troy Police tip line at (518) 270-4777 or through their website at troypd.org.

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Sidewinder Photography was started back in 2007 as a way to provide first responders with photos from incidents for training. After that we began to grow and cover police and fire incidents around the capital region. Sidewinder Photography never went to school for journalism or photography and was all self thought. Sidewinder Photography provides breaking news of emergency scene photography and media to the community as street journalist. We receive our information from being on scene, emergency radio communications and interviews from members of the public or officials from the Fire or Police Department.

All information is public knowledge including license plates, addresses.. ECT. All photo's that are taken on any emergency scene are public knowledge. Sidewinder Photography holds the rights to remove photos from our page, but will only do so under certain circumstances. Sidewinder Photography is a full member of the press and works for multiple newspapers and magazines on the local and national level. All material post, photos, and video is copy written material. We supply other news station with photos and media for usage at the request of the news station.

Sidewinder Photography welcomes people to share our post and comment on them. Please be kind to each other. We understand that the material we post is real life emergencies and crime scenes and can be graphic in nature to some viewers. If you do not like what we post under our right of the freedom of the press, then please unlike the page and have a great day. Sidewinder Photography will not put up with threats of any kind. Thank you and enjoy our page.

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