Syosset, Long Island – The quiet community of Syosset was shaken to its core on Sunday, August 25, 2024, when Joseph DeLucia Jr., 59, committed a horrific murder-suicide, killing four family members before turning the gun on himself. The incident unfolded at the DeLucia family home on Wyoming Court, leaving the neighborhood in shock and mourning.
The victims have been identified as Joanne Kearns, 69, of Tampa, Florida; Frank DeLucia, 64, of Durham, North Carolina; Tina Hammond, 64, and her daughter, Victoria Hammond, 30, both of East Patchogue, New York. According to Nassau County Police, the tragedy stemmed from a family dispute over the sale of the house that Joseph had lived in for his entire life.
Joseph, who was deeply troubled by the prospect of losing his home and being cut out of the family’s will, reportedly used a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun to fatally shoot his siblings and niece in the rear of the house. After the shootings, Joseph moved to the front lawn, where he shouted about what had happened before taking his own life.
Detective Captain Stephen Fitzpatrick, who is leading the investigation, revealed that Joseph DeLucia Jr. had a history of mental health issues, which may have contributed to his drastic actions. Neighbors reported hearing Joseph scream before a single gunshot rang out, followed by the discovery of the tragic scene.
"The entire family is now gone," Capt. Fitzpatrick stated, underscoring the magnitude of the loss. He added that the crime scene was one of the most "horrific" ever encountered by the Nassau County Police.
On social media, the community expressed their shock and sorrow. Kimberly West commented, "This is so extremely sad!" while Lisa Pisa noted, "Seems people knew he was suicidal…very sad. Wish someone stepped in when they knew he wasn’t taking his meds and talking suicidal thoughts." Others, like Charlene A. LaBorde, reflected on the situation, saying, "He felt so entitled. Seems like family did not realize how deep his mental illness really was."
The DeLucia family’s story highlights the critical importance of addressing mental health concerns and maintaining open communication within families to prevent such tragedies. As the community grapples with the aftermath, authorities are urging the public to be vigilant and proactive when they notice signs of distress in others.
This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between mental health issues, family dynamics, and the potential for violence. The community of Syosset now mourns the loss of five lives, forever changed by this unimaginable tragedy.