Police investigate deaths of 5 people on Long Island

SYOSSET, N.Y. (AP/PIX11) — Police on Sunday were investigating the deaths of five people at a home on Long Island.

Officers responding to a report of shots fired in Syosset at midday found the body of a man outside a home at Wyoming Court with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The bodies of four other people were found inside the residence, according to the Nassau County Police Department.

Neighbors said the owner of the house where the violent act took place passed away on Aug. 19; one of her sons lived with her.

“I had a terrible feeling because neighbors said he was so distraught because he didn’t know where he was going to live,” said Wendy Paisner.

She’s lived in the neighborhood for 30 years. She described seeing family members traveling from out of state to plan their mother’s funeral and to sell her house.

“He just snapped, I think, because he left the house, and the four siblings were going to sell the house, and he just needed emotional support,” Paisner said.

Neighbors told PIX11 News the son who lived in the residence was a volunteer firefighter and quit last week after his mom passed away.

Those who’ve lived in the area for a long time describe it as a quaint, family neighborhood with working people.

“This is very shocking to be in a community like this. You don’t hear about this in the Syosset and Woodbury area,” said neighbor Cory Margulefsky.

Police said all five victims were pronounced dead by a police medic and that a homicide squad was investigating.

Police did not release further information.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. It is a free, 24/7 service that offers support, information, and local resources. You can also click here for additional hotlines within your state.

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