A suspect emerged from a Queens home wearing tactical gear shortly after a fiery explosion on Saturday. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) responded to a 911 call about shots fired and a man yelling threats.
According to NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, Keegan Thompson, 33, was shot by police and arrested after the explosion. Authorities discovered two deceased family members inside the residence.
The incident occurred just after 12 p.m. when officers responded to a call on Ocean Crest Boulevard in Far Rockaway. The caller, who reported her husband was armed, encountered the police outside her home. She mentioned that she heard gunshots, found a body on a bed, and then exited the house to call 911. She warned officers about her husband possessing a shotgun.
Officers established a perimeter, called for the NYPD Emergency Service Unit (ESU), and attempted to communicate with the suspect without success. As ESU officers were about to enter the home at around 12:15 p.m., a substantial explosion occurred. Fifteen to 20 seconds later, the suspect came out with a shotgun and a tactical vest holding extra ammunition.
Despite orders to drop the weapon, the suspect did not comply, prompting an officer to fire and strike him. The suspect was taken into custody, after which officers provided aid. He was then transported to Jamaica Hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
Chief McIntosh stated that Thompson had no criminal record or documented history of mental illness. The victims inside the home remain unidentified, and their causes of death are being determined. Officers ensured the evacuation of nearby homes due to the fire’s danger.
The cause of the explosion is not yet known, and Chief McIntosh mentioned that the investigation is still ongoing. The episode was documented on police body cameras and is under review by the NYPD’s Force Investigation Division.
McIntosh praised the officers’ bravery, highlighting their quick response to the emergent threat. He noted they acted without hesitation, going toward a dangerous situation.