UPDATE: A 15-year-old boy from Long Island has been indicted for attempted murder following a shooting incident at a pool in Central Islip that left two individuals injured, prosecutors confirmed this afternoon. The indictment was announced by the Suffolk County District Attorney on Thursday, marking a significant development in a case that has shocked the local community.
The shooting occurred on June 19 around 4:30 p.m. at the Hawthorne Living apartment complex, described as a luxury community in Islip. During a confrontation between two groups of teenagers, the suspect allegedly fired at least 10 rounds from a firearm he pulled from his backpack. The violence erupted at the complex’s swimming pool, alarming residents and witnesses.
According to the Suffolk County police, seven shots struck the intended target, a 16-year-old male. Additionally, a 25-year-old woman who was with the young victim was also shot. Both victims were rushed to hospitals: the male victim to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip and the female to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, both in serious condition.
Investigators recovered 10 spent shell casings from the scene, alongside multiple bullet fragments, including one that penetrated a nearby apartment. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting but was apprehended on August 14 in Amityville, approximately 13 miles west of Central Islip.
On Tuesday, the teen was arraigned on charges that include attempted murder, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. If convicted of the top count, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. He is scheduled to return to court on October 21.
“This violence has no place in our community,” stated Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney in a press release. “My office will do everything in its power to seek swift justice for the victims.”
As this story develops, residents and families in the area are left grappling with the implications of such violence in their community. The emotional toll on the victims and their families is profound, highlighting the urgent need for measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Stay tuned for updates as this case unfolds.