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An investigation is ongoing following an officer-involved shooting in South Glens Falls on Wednesday (April 23). The incident marks the third such shooting in Saratoga County in recent weeks. According to authorities, 45-year-old Billy Cassells III, wanted in Washington County, led police on a high-speed chase before crashing his vehicle into a house at the intersection of State Route 9 and Catherine Street.
After the crash, Cassells exited the vehicle with a loaded Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun and fled on foot. State Troopers instructed him multiple times to drop the weapon, but he refused and raised the firearm towards them. A trooper then shot Cassells in the right shoulder. Troopers provided medical aid until emergency services arrived and transported him to Albany Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition.
A passenger in Cassells' vehicle also fled but was later apprehended by South Glens Falls police. The passenger's identity has not been disclosed. State Route 9 remains closed between Marion Avenue and Jackson Avenue as the investigation continues.
Cassells was wanted on an active warrant for criminal contempt. He is expected to face multiple felony charges. This incident is part of a series of recent officer-involved shootings in the area, including two in Malta and one in Deerpark, where individuals pointed weapons at officers. State Police Commander Christopher Gilroy confirmed that no officers were injured during the encounter.