WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) -The man who died after being shot by a West Springfield police officer over 2 weeks ago, has been identified by authorities as 34-year-old Vladistav Verluka from West Springfield.

The Hampden District Attorney’s Office released his name on Friday.

At approximately 9:51 p.m. on April 22, 2026, the West Springfield Police Department responded to George Street for a reported domestic disturbance. During the incident, officers encountered an adult male armed with multiple kitchen knives.

Due to circumstances that remain under investigation, an officer discharged his service weapon, striking the individual. Officers immediately rendered medical aid, and the man was transported to Baystate Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the individual became combative with officers while armed and that a conducted energy weapon was deployed but proved ineffective prior to the use of deadly force.

The incident continues to remain under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the West Springfield Police Department. The District Attorney’s Office will review the investigation and issue findings and conclusions regarding the use of force and the circumstances surrounding the death. These materials will be made public once the review is complete and finalized.

This remains an ongoing investigation.

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