In a tragic incident that shook Central New York, Christopher R. Murphy, 33, of Salina, opened fire and killed two police officers in Salina on April 14, 2024. The investigation into the shooting has revealed that Murphy had constructed his own illegal assault weapon using various parts.

According to the Onondaga County District Attorney, the gun Murphy used was a Springfield AR-15 that he had built by "cannibalizing" different parts. By assembling the firearm himself, Murphy was able to bypass the requirements for a semi-automatic permit and a background check, which would have been mandatory if he had purchased a firearm legally.

It was disclosed that Murphy had obtained a lower barrel receiver legally in 2019, undergoing a background check in the process. However, he then proceeded to add other parts to the weapon, including a protruding pistol grip, which rendered it illegal under New York state law.

Authorities suspect that Murphy likely acquired the additional parts online, as he did not need any permits to build the weapon. The gun he assembled lacked a fixed magazine and instead had a "banana clip" capable of holding 40 rounds, well above the legal limit of 10 rounds in New York.

Despite being a homemade weapon, the gun did possess a serial number, making it traceable and distinct from a "ghost gun." However, without the required permits and modifications, it was considered illegal under the state's regulations.

While the purchase of AR-15s is permitted in New York under certain conditions, such as having a fixed magazine and excluding specific "military characteristics" like a protruding pistol grip, it appears that Murphy's weapon did not meet these criteria.

Law enforcement officials also discovered a second AR-15 rifle at Murphy's residence on Darien Drive. Sheriff Toby Shelley mentioned that it could potentially belong to Murphy's father, and investigations are ongoing to determine its legality.

This incident raises concerns about the availability of illegal guns and parts online, as some companies have been found selling prohibited items. In fact, one company was recently banned by the New York Attorney General from shipping untraceable parts into the state.

As the investigation into this tragic event continues, the community mourns the loss of Onondaga County Sheriff's Lt. Michael Hoosock and Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen. Their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be forgotten.