Earlier this month, the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) issued a press release identifying a local 15 year-old boy killed in a recent police raid as Brett Rosenau. Preliminary autopsy results revealed that Rosenau died of smoke inhalation after SWAT team members used noise-producing explosives on a home.
Initial reports stated that Brett Rosenau had been killed by SWAT team gunfire, but the newest statement from the Albuquerque police indicates that these earlier reports were untrue.
The incident in which Brett Rosenau lost his life occurred the evening of Wednesday, July 6, 2022. Police were searching for Qiaunt Kelley, who fled and barricade himself inside a residence. Kelley was wanted by Albuquerque police over a parole violation. The SWAT team employed a noise flash diversionary device in an effort to force Kelley out of the home.
After the explosives were detonated, officers noticed smoke being emitted from inside the residence. The fire department was summoned to the scene. Soon after, Kelley emerged from the building with burn injuries and was taken into custody.
At a later period, Brett Rosenau was discovered already deceased inside the home. Investigations are still being conducted to determine the source of the fire. Police admit that explosives set off by officers on the scene are likely to blame for the fire that ultimately claimed Brett Rosenau’s life.
Albuquerque police stated:
“APD Chief Medina has acknowledged the possibility that the devices used to introduce irritants into the home may have caused the fire. Because the death occurred while police were taking a suspect into custody, a multi-agency task force is conducting a criminal investigation, and the results will be forwarded to the District Attorney for review.”
There is no word at this point regarding whether there will be any disciplinary action taken against any APD officers.
The attorneys at Buckingham & Vega Law Firm grieve with Brett Rosenau’s family during this time of tragedy. More information about how to financially support the family as they raise funds for funeral expenses can be found on the family’s Go Fund Me page.
Buckingham & Vega is a personal injury law firm serving Albuquerque and surrounding areas of New Mexico. Please reach out to our office for help with a personal legal matter.