Police believe home was targeted, but unsure why
Riverhead police believe the home two masked men fired bullets into Tuesday night was targeted, but the reason remains a mystery.
“For what reason, I don’t know,” said Riverhead police Sergeant Joseph Loggia.
Police are still searching for the two men they say shot at an East Avenue house in downtown Riverhead and then fled the area on foot.
The shooting occurred about 11:30 p.m. at 216 East Avenue, where two adults and three children ages 5, 12 and 15 were inside, police said.
Nobody was injured in the incident.
One of the masked men had also broken into the home, but nothing was reported stolen, Sgt. Loggia said.
A man believed to be the target took off on foot following the shooting.
“He did flee the house but I believe he fled for his own safety,” Sgt. Loggia said.
Police could not say if drugs were involved at this time, Sgt. Loggia said.
Investigators found shell casings on the ground outside the house, but a search for the individuals produced no results.
“We’ve solved crimes with less,” Sgt. Loggia said.
The blue house appears to be neatly cared for. Property records indicate it is owned by Tomasz Mejsak of Southold. Mr. Mejsak could not be located for comment.
“[The block] is changing,” said a man who described himself as a concerned neighbor, adding that he doesn’t let his teenage daughter play outside anymore. “It wasn’t a bad neighborhood before. ”
A man who identified himself as living in the targeted house, where a porch light was still on Wednesday morning, declined to comment.
Another neighbor described the head of the family that lives in the home as “a nice guy.”
“He takes good care of his kids,” he said.
The neighbor also complained about a drug epidemic in the area.
“It’s ridiculous,” he said. “They stand [and sell] right in the street.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Riverhead Police at (631) 727-4500.
The shooting comes two weeks after four suspects were arrested for shooting at a house on nearby Third Street.
The shooters in that incident will be arraigned in Suffolk County criminal court Wednesday.
