NORTH BAY SHORE, N.Y. — A police officer was shot in the face Thursday while trying to search a home connected to a recent killing on Long Island. Authorities confirmed the officer, a 33-year-old former Navy medic with two years on the force, is expected to recover. The suspect ultimately surrendered after a standoff.
The incident began Wednesday afternoon when the body of a 66-year-old man was discovered in the woods in North Bay Shore. Investigators, using security camera footage, identified a former co-worker of the deceased as someone they needed to question. The two men were reportedly mechanics who had past conflicts.
Why was the officer shot? The officer was shot in the face while police executed a search warrant at the suspect’s home.
Authorities obtained a search warrant for the 48-year-old suspect’s residence. Upon arrival, the man allegedly fired on officers through an open door, striking the 33-year-old officer in the face.
Officer’s injuries and recovery
The impact fractured the officer’s cheekbone. The bullet lodged near his ear, just a half-inch from his eye. Dr. James Vosswinkel of Stony Brook University Medical Center stated the officer avoided nerve damage and is on track for a full recovery. The officer underwent surgery to remove the bullet and was recovering Thursday morning.
“He’s in a lot of pain,” said Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina, “but he’s happy to be alive.”
Suspect surrenders after standoff
No officers returned fire. Instead, they surrounded the home and called for hostage negotiators. The suspect surrendered without further incident around 6 a.m. Thursday, according to Catalina.
Police have not yet released the names of the officer or the suspect. Charges are anticipated but have not yet been announced.
