Shooting Incident in Suffolk County

On Tuesday afternoon, police in Suffolk County, New York, shot a 33-year-old man.

The incident began when officers responded to a 911 call made by Joseph Restino at about 1:30 PM, according to sources. It was reported that Restino, who has a known history of mental illness, confronted a police officer at his home on Ohio Avenue while wielding a large sword.

Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina stated, “I encountered a 33-year-old man with a big sword. The officer quickly instructed him to drop the weapon. At that moment, he swung his sword and advanced towards the officers.”

Despite being told to stop, Restino moved forward while covering the blade with the sword. One officer deployed a Taser in an attempt to subdue him, but it was ineffective. When he continued his approach, police discharged their firearms, hitting him in the chest.

Emergency responders transported Restino to South Shore University Hospital, where he underwent surgery. As of now, details about his condition are unclear. Reports indicated that there were no hostages found in the home, and it was stated by Catalina that Restino appeared to be attempting suicide by cop.

Body camera footage captured the event. A neighbor, Kevin Veres, recounted, “I heard two or three shots or something like that. I saw four or five policemen outside trying to apprehend someone. The next thing I noticed was the guy on the ground by the grass over there.”

Two officers were hospitalized for injuries related to the confrontation.