Tragedy Strikes as Man Kills Four Family Members, Then Himself in Syosset, New York

In a devastating incident that has left a community in shock, a distressed New York man fatally shot four of his family members before taking his own life, authorities reported on Monday. The horrifying event took place shortly before noon on Sunday at the late mother's house in Syosset, a suburban area on Long Island, just east of Manhattan.

Joseph DeLucia, Jr., 59, had gathered with his family to discuss the future of the home, which he also resided in. Instead of handling the matter peacefully, DeLucia embarked on a horrifying rampage, firing 12 rounds from a shotgun he had obtained. According to Nassau County Police Captain Stephen Fitzpatrick, three siblings and a niece fell victim to the gunfire.

The victims have been identified as Joanne Kearns, 69, of Tampa, Florida; Frank DeLucia, 64, of Durham, North Carolina; Tina Hammond, 64; and her 30-year-old daughter, Victoria Hammond, both from East Patchogue, also on Long Island.

After committing the unspeakable act, Joseph DeLucia, Jr. walked out onto the front lawn while screaming about his heinous actions, before turning the gun on himself, as witnesses recounted the horrifying scene.

Law enforcement officials revealed that, using so-called "red flag" laws, local police could have potentially prevented DeLucia from obtaining a firearm if they had been made aware of his mental health struggles. Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder emphasized that officers were informed only after the shooting that neighbors had expressed concerns about DeLucia's emotional state following the death of his mother. Ryder urged communities to remain vigilant and report any troubling signs to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.

However, Randy Marquis, a neighbor who had known the family for over a decade, stated that while DeLucia appeared saddened and confused in recent days, there were no overt warning signs that he would resort to violence. Marquis, who regularly checked up on the family's elderly mother, expressed shock and regret, noting that if they had known of his intentions, they would have taken action to prevent the tragic outcome.

As investigations continue, police are exploring reports that DeLucia, Jr. may have struggled with mental health issues. Authorities confirmed that they had only been called to the residence for a wellness check in recent years and had found no indication that DeLucia, Jr. posed a danger at the time. His lone arrest had occurred back in 1983 for driving under the influence.

Fitzpatrick also revealed that DeLucia, Jr., who worked as a local auto mechanic, was a hoarder, and the house was filled with tools and car repair items. While acknowledging that it is impossible to definitively determine if this incident could have been prevented, Fitzpatrick urged the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health concerns.

The shocking tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the deep emotional pain that individuals may face and the need for wider support systems to identify those in distress. The community of Syosset mourns the loss of five lives, grappling with grief and seeking solace during these difficult times.