A heartbreaking incident has stunned the peaceful community in Long Island, New York, where a man allegedly carried out a devastating ‘murder-suicide’ following the recent passing of his 95-year-old mother. The suspected shooter, Joseph DeLucia Jr., 59, was reportedly overwhelmed by grief over his late mother, Theresa DeLucia, and the imminent sale of their Syosset home.

According to the Nassau County Police Department, neighbours heard cries and shouts emanating from the residence on Sunday, leading to a horrific scene in the kitchen where DeLucia Jr. allegedly opened fire on his two sisters, brother, and niece who were gathered for a meeting with a realtor. The victims have been identified as Joanne Kearns, Frank DeLucia, Tina Hammond, and Victoria Hammond.

Authorities disclosed that DeLucia Jr., under the distress of feeling excluded from the will and facing potential displacement, unleashed 12 shots at his family members before turning the gun on himself. Captain Stephen Fitzpatrick highlighted the shooter’s history of mental health issues and the tragic turn of events triggered by the loss of his mother and the house sale.

Residents in the neighbourhood expressed shock and disbelief at the unprecedented violence that shook their typically quiet community, emphasising the rarity of such incidents in the area. Investigations into the tragic occurrence are currently ongoing, as the Nassau County Police Department delves into the circumstances surrounding the harrowing incident.

Mental health support is available through numerous resources for those in need. If you or someone you know is facing a crisis, assistance can be accessed through Mental Health America by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org. Crisis Text Line is also available for support by texting MHA to 741741.

The heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support systems in times of crisis. The community mourns the loss of the victims and grapples with the aftermath of the devastating ‘murder-suicide’ that has shaken them to their core.