On Wednesday afternoon, a tragic confrontation led to the death of 48-year-old James Dellea from Hillsdale, Columbia County. The incident occurred at a church parking lot in Saratoga Springs, New York, and has sparked a thorough investigation by state authorities.
What Happened To James Dellea?
The confrontation began when New York State Police were responding to reports of James Dellea threatening self-harm. Located at Albany-Saratoga Speedway in Malta just before 4 p.m., Dellea was initially approached by officers who tried to de-escalate the situation. According to Major Christopher Gilroy, the encounter escalated when Dellea failed to comply with commands to exit his vehicle and subsequently fled the scene, leading to a low-speed chase up Route 9.
The pursuit ended at Bethel Saratoga, a church near the intersection of Driscoll Road, where Dellea was again instructed to leave his vehicle. Police observed him brandishing a firearm, which prompted a trooper to discharge his weapon, resulting in Dellea’s fatal shooting.
Who Was James Dellea?
James Dellea was a familiar face in his local community. He was a former Owner-Operator at James A. Dellea tire and auto repair. He studied at Taconic Hills High School. Known to friends and neighbors as “Jimbo,” he had recently moved from his former residence on Route 21 in Hillsdale, where he lived with his partner. Despite his recent relocation, he remained a well-regarded member of the community, with neighbors expressing shock and sorrow at the news of his death. They described him as a good neighbor, reflecting on the personal connection they had with him.
Dellea worked at Hillsdale Repairs, an auto body shop, where his presence was a familiar one. Colleagues declined to comment further on the situation, referring inquiries to absent staff.
Social media posts from Dellea provide a glimpse into the struggles he was facing prior to his death. His Facebook page reveals personal grief and emotional turmoil, including a post mourning the loss of someone he referred to as his sister and expressing a sense of isolation.
The shooting is currently under investigation by the State Police and Saratoga Springs police, with the assistance of the State Attorney General’s office. This is standard procedure for officer-involved shootings in New York. The details of the investigation are still preliminary, and further information will be released as it becomes available.
Thomas Coghlan, an adjunct professor of psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, commented on the impact such investigations have on officers, noting that while they may find their actions justified, the process can still be highly stressful.
As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning, reflecting on the tragic events and the life of James Dellea. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the complexities faced by both law enforcement and individuals struggling with personal crises.
What People Say About James Dellea
Ilene Ostrander said I was fortunate to have been able to grown up down the road from James Dellea & his family in North Hillsdale. He was a great childhood friend and even as adults he was always looking out for me, sending me kind messages, & offering support sort of like a big brother. When I moved to Riverview, he and his family lived in Port Charlotte, I should have ventured down there to say hello then. Jimbo I hope you know how much you are loved by many people near and far. To your family I send my deepest sympathy to you.
Alice Baker said This morning my heart is full of sadness for the loss of one hell of a guy who would have done anything for anyone no mattter who you were James Dellea was a good friend and an amazing father I’m proud to call him my friend and brother
James Hatch said James Dellea I am still in shock, when the news broke last night I couldn’t believe it, we always had good times together, even my kids were in shock when they seen the news as they always loved talking and enjoying your company when they seen you. You will be missed jimbo by many RIP my friend (77)
