A man was shot by police officers in New York City on Monday after allegedly opening fire and killing his sister and mother, authorities confirmed Tuesday.
The incident unfolded in the early morning hours when responding officers encountered the armed suspect at a residence in the city. Upon arrival, authorities say the man fired upon them, prompting officers to return fire.
Neighbors described hearing multiple gunshots before police swarmed the location.
One neighbor told reporters the family lived quietly in the building and said the suspect had long been troubled. 'He was never normal,' she said of the alleged shooter. 'You could tell something was wrong with him.'
Background
The New York Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting shots fired at the residence. Upon entering, officers discovered two victims—later identified as the suspect's sister and mother—both fatally wounded.
Investigators believe the shootings occurred before police arrival, suggesting a domestic violence component to the case. The suspect reportedly barricaded himself inside the home following the killings.
Detectives with the NYPD's homicide squad have been processing the scene and interviewing witnesses since early Monday morning.
The Investigation
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, was struck by police gunfire during the confrontation. His condition remains undisclosed by authorities.
Officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave per standard protocol while an internal review and investigation are conducted.
NYPD homicide detectives are working to establish a timeline of events and determine what may have precipitated the violence between family members. No motive has been released, and investigators continue to interview neighbors and building residents for additional information.
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has been notified and is expected to prosecute the case once the suspect is medically cleared to be questioned by detectives.
Key Takeaways
- Two women—the suspect's sister and mother—were fatally shot at a NYC residence Monday morning
- The alleged shooter was struck by police gunfire after reportedly firing upon officers
- A neighbor described the suspect as 'never normal' in comments to reporters
- NYPD homicide detectives are investigating the case; no motive has been established
- Officers involved have been placed on administrative leave pending investigation
What's Next
The suspect remains hospitalized under police guard while investigators await his ability to be questioned. Once released from medical care, he is expected to face multiple charges including two counts of murder and related weapons offenses.
Manhattan prosecutors indicate they will pursue the case aggressively given the nature of the crimes and the involvement of law enforcement in stopping the suspect. A court date has not yet been scheduled.