In a devastating turn of events, a family meeting to settle their late mother’s affairs ended in tragedy as Joe DeLucia Jr., 59, turned a gun on his relatives and then himself. The shocking incident occurred at their home on Wyoming Court in Syosset, Long Island, just before noon on Sunday.
The Horrific Incident
DeLucia, who was deeply affected by the recent death of his 95-year-old mother Theresa Martha DeLucia, opened fire inside their family home, killing four family members before taking his own life. The victims included his brother Frank DeLucia, 64, who had traveled from North Carolina, his sisters Joanne Kearns, 69, from Tampa, and Tina Hammond, 64, from Long Island, as well as Tina’s 30-year-old daughter Victoria.
Neighbors reported hearing intense crying and screaming before DeLucia fatally shot himself on the front lawn. Real estate agent Mary Macaluso, who was scheduled to discuss selling the property, arrived to find a crime scene rather than a discussion about the house.
Mental Health Struggles and Fears of Homelessness
DeLucia had been struggling with mental health issues and had recently stopped taking his medication. Sources indicate that he was deeply distressed about the prospect of moving out of the family home, which he had lived in all his life. Neighbor Randi Marquis noted that DeLucia’s fear of becoming homeless was a significant factor in his state of mind.
Marquis also mentioned that the gathering was intended to double as a birthday celebration for one of DeLucia’s sisters, and she had been preparing food for the occasion. She was shocked and heartbroken when she realized the severity of the situation.
Community Reaction and Police Response
Police responded to the scene after receiving reports of gunshots. Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder described the scene as one of the most horrific he has encountered in his 41-year career. The police have criticized the community for not alerting authorities about DeLucia’s distress before the incident.
Macaluso, who was supposed to meet the family to discuss the sale of the property, arrived to find the street closed off by authorities. She explained that the family wanted a quick assessment of the home, valued at nearly $900,000, because some members had traveled for the funeral and needed to return home soon.
The Personal Impact and Community Shock
The neighborhood remains in shock following the gruesome events. Residents who heard the gunfire are deeply unsettled, with some describing the incident as a rare and horrifying tragedy. The impact on the community has been profound, as they grapple with the loss and the stark reality of the events that unfolded in their midst.
Marquis, who had a close relationship with the DeLucia family, shared her sorrow, remembering Theresa’s fall in April and her subsequent decline in health. She also spoke about DeLucia’s lifelong dedication to his mother and the deep personal impact of the tragedy on everyone involved.
Mine Crypto. Earn $GOATS while it is free! Click Here!!