The New York Police Department (NYPD) responded to a report of gunfire at a home in Far Rockaway, Queens on Saturday. The caller, a woman, reported that her husband was armed and that there was a body inside the house.
After securing the perimeter, police called the Emergency Service Unit (ESU) to the scene. When attempts to communicate with the suspect failed, a large explosion occurred around 12:15 p.m. as teams prepared to enter the home.
Fifteen to twenty seconds after the explosion, Keegan Thompson, 33, emerged from the burning home wearing a tactical vest loaded with ammunition and carrying a pump-action shotgun. When he repeatedly ignored officers' commands to drop the weapon and raise his hands, an officer opened fire and struck Thompson.
The wounded suspect was taken into custody and transported to Jamaica Hospital, where he is listed in critical but stable condition. NYPD officials stated that Thompson had no prior criminal record or documented mental health issues.
After the incident, teams entered the home and discovered the bodies of two family members, whose identities have not yet been released. The causes of death and the cause of the explosion are under investigation.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in a social media statement that he was grateful for the NYPD's swift response and courage, adding he was thankful no officers were injured. Mamdani also expressed solidarity with the loved ones of those who died.
