Family Tragedy in Syosset: Man Kills Relatives Over Home Dispute
A man in Syosset, NY, killed four family members and himself during a dispute over his late mother's home. The incident highlights concerns about mental health awareness and firearm access.
In a tragic incident on Sunday, August 25, 2024, a family gathering in Syosset, New York, ended in multiple fatalities. Joseph DeLucia Jr., 59, took the lives of four relatives before ending his own, following a dispute over the sale of his late mother's home.
The event unfolded in a quiet cul-de-sac, a suburban street design that became popular in the mid-20th century for its perceived safety and tranquility. DeLucia Jr., who had resided in the house his entire life, was reportedly distraught over the prospect of moving out. This situation underscores the emotional complexities often associated with settling estates and selling deceased family members' homes.
The victims included DeLucia Jr.'s three siblings and a niece: Joanne Kearns, 69, from Tampa, Florida; Frank DeLucia, 64, from Durham, North Carolina; and Tina Hammond, 64, and her daughter Victoria Hammond, 30, both from East Patchogue, Long Island. The family had convened to discuss the property's sale, just three days after laying their matriarch to rest.
Nassau County Police Captain Stephen Fitzpatrick reported that DeLucia Jr. fired 12 rounds from a shotgun, a weapon less commonly used in violent crimes according to FBI statistics. The incident occurred shortly before noon, culminating with DeLucia Jr. taking his own life on the front lawn after vocally acknowledging his actions.
This tragedy has raised questions about mental health awareness and firearm access. Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder revealed that authorities were unaware of community concerns regarding DeLucia Jr.'s mental state following his mother's death. This lack of information prevented potential intervention through "red flag" laws, which were enacted in New York State in 2019 as part of the Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law.
DeLucia Jr., an auto mechanic by profession, was also described as having hoarding tendencies, a condition recognized as a mental health disorder in the DSM-5. His only prior encounter with law enforcement was a driving under the influence arrest in 1983, highlighting the importance of ongoing community vigilance and communication with authorities.
The incident has prompted discussions about the role of community members in reporting potential threats. Commissioner Ryder emphasized the need for proactive communication, stating, "We are asking our communities to not sit back. Be our eyes, be our ears and let us know what is happening."
This event serves as a somber reminder of the psychological impact of losing a parent, especially for individuals who have lived with them their entire lives. It also underscores the importance of mental health awareness and intervention programs in law enforcement training.
As the community of Syosset, a hamlet in Nassau County - the most densely populated county in New York State outside of New York City - grapples with this tragedy, the incident has reignited conversations about family dynamics, mental health support, and the potential role of "red flag" laws in preventing similar occurrences.
"Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org."
This resource, known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, transitioned from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in July 2022, offering support to those in need.
