Ex-NYPD Sergeant Convicted of Killing Suspect with Picnic Cooler Freed on Bail

Erik Duran can stay out of jail while he appeals his manslaughter conviction for throwing a cooler at a fleeing suspect who then crashed and died.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:23pm

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An extreme close-up of a shattered plastic picnic cooler lid, reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash in the dark, conceptually illustrating the violent incident that led to a former police officer's conviction.The picnic cooler that former NYPD sergeant Erik Duran threw at a fleeing suspect, leading to the suspect's death and Duran's manslaughter conviction.NYC Today

A former New York City police sergeant, Erik Duran, has been granted bail and freed from jail while he appeals his manslaughter conviction for tossing a picnic cooler at a fleeing suspect, Eric Duprey, who then crashed his motorized scooter and died in 2023. A judge ruled that Duran can stay out of jail on $300,000 cash or bond while he appeals his three- to nine-year prison sentence.

Why it matters

Duran's conviction and sentencing were seen as a major development, as he was the first former NYPD officer in at least two decades to be sent to prison for an on-duty death. His release on bail pending appeal has reignited debates around police accountability, use of force, and the legal process for officers involved in such incidents.

The details

In August 2023, Duran was part of a narcotics policing unit conducting a 'buy-and-bust' operation in the Bronx. When the suspect, Eric Duprey, tried to flee on a scooter, Duran threw a picnic cooler at him, causing Duprey to lose control, crash into a tree, and sustain fatal head injuries. Duran claimed he was trying to protect other officers, but was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 3-9 years in prison.

  • On August 23, 2023, the incident occurred in which Duran threw the cooler at Duprey.
  • In February 2026, Duran was convicted of manslaughter.
  • On April 14, 2026, a lower-court judge sentenced Duran to 3-9 years in prison.
  • On April 17, 2026, a state appellate court judge granted Duran bail and freed him from jail while he appeals his conviction.

The players

Erik Duran

A 38-year-old former New York City police sergeant who was convicted of manslaughter for throwing a picnic cooler at a fleeing suspect, Eric Duprey, who then crashed his scooter and died.

Eric Duprey

A 30-year-old suspect who died after crashing his motorized scooter when Duran threw a picnic cooler at him during a 'buy-and-bust' operation in 2023.

Saliann Scarpulla

A state appellate court judge who ordered Duran freed on $300,000 cash or bond while he appeals his manslaughter conviction.

Vincent Vallelong

The president of Duran's union, the Sergeants Benevolent Association, who called Duran's release on bail 'a major win.'

Jon Roberts

A lawyer for Duprey's family, who said they were 'deeply disappointed' by the decision to free Duran on bail.

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What they’re saying

“This is a major win for Erik and his family and for law enforcement officers around the country.”

— Vincent Vallelong, President, Sergeants Benevolent Association

“While we respect the appellate process, this outcome reopens painful wounds for a family that has already endured an immense loss. Our focus remains on seeking accountability and ensuring that the seriousness of what occurred is never diminished.”

— Jon Roberts, Lawyer for Duprey's family

What’s next

The judge's decision to grant Duran bail while he appeals his conviction will likely be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for other officers facing similar charges. The Appellate Division will now review Duran's case and determine whether his conviction and sentence will be upheld or overturned.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions and debates around police accountability, use of force, and the legal process for officers involved in on-duty incidents that result in civilian deaths. The release of Duran on bail pending appeal has reignited these discussions, with advocates on both sides closely following the developments.