NORFOLK— A Norfolk man died in State Police custody early this morning while waiting for emergency medical transportation. 

State Police say that they are investigating a July 1 incident that resulted in an individual’s death in the town of Norfolk, which began when Troopers responded to a 911 call regarding a domestic dispute with a knife on O’Neil Road. 

State Police say that upon arrival, Troopers found an individual holding a knife in the driveway. The Troopers reportedly issued commands for the individual to drop the knife, which they complied with. Upon questioning, the individual, who was identified as the victim in the dispute. The victim indicated that Bernie K. Russo, age 47, from Norfolk, NY, was making threats and was armed with an unspecified weapon.

 Troopers instructed Russo to step outside, as he was making loud noises and banging things around inside the residence. Russo emerged holding an unknown object. The Troopers again provided verbal commands for him to drop the object, and he complied.

 Troopers say that before they could reach him, Russo fell to the ground and appeared to have a "manic episode." 

A statement from State Police reports that “to ensure everyone's safety and due to the pending charges from the domestic dispute, the Troopers placed him in handcuffs.”

Troopers also contacted medical emergency services to respond to the scene for Russo’s condition.

 While waiting for emergency medical personnel to arrive, Russo reportedly became unresponsive. The Troopers immediately began administering lifesaving measures.

Massena Rescue also arrived shortly thereafter to continue lifesaving measures, but despite their attempts, Russo was pronounced deceased.

 Pursuant to Executive Law Section 70-b, the New York State Attorney General’s Office has been notified of the death. 

 The investigation is ongoing.