An armed suspect, dressed in tactical gear, emerged from a home in Queens moments after a significant explosion on Saturday. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) had been responding to a 911 call concerning gunfire and a man shouting threats.
Police shot and arrested Keegan Thompson, 33, following the explosion, stated NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh. Authorities later found two deceased family members inside the residence.
Officers arrived shortly after 12 p.m. at a house located on Ocean Crest Boulevard in Far Rockaway based on a call implying the caller’s husband was armed. Outside the house, a woman informed police that she had heard gunshots and found a body on a bed, prompting her to leave the house and contact 911. She also indicated that her husband possessed a shotgun.
Officers established a perimeter and called the NYPD Emergency Service Unit (ESU), attempting several times to reach the suspect without success.
At approximately 12:15 p.m., just as ESU officers were preparing to enter, a considerable explosion originated from within the home, according to McIntosh. Soon after, the suspect appeared with a shotgun, wearing a tactical vest filled with more ammunition.
Police ordered the suspect to drop the weapon and raise his hands. When he ignored these commands and continued holding the shotgun, an officer shot him. He was detained, given medical assistance, and taken to Jamaica Hospital, reported to be in critical but stable condition.
McIntosh noted that Thompson had no criminal or documented mental health history with the NYPD. Inside the home, police discovered two dead family members, whose identities and causes of death are yet to be disclosed.
Fire engulfed the house, prompting police to evacuate nearby residences to protect the community. Investigators have not determined the explosion’s cause. When queried about explosives, McIntosh mentioned the investigation is ongoing.
The NYPD’s Force Investigation Division is reviewing footage from officers’ body cameras that captured the incident. McIntosh praised the responding officers’ bravery, emphasizing their readiness to face danger without hesitation.