Teen Arrested in Long Island Triple Shooting
Nassau County police reported on Wednesday that they have apprehended an 18-year-old in connection with a triple shooting that resulted in the death of a college basketball player outside a party in Long Island.
The suspect, Jacob McMillan, is accused of firing a gun outside an assembly hall in Hempstead shortly before 11 p.m. on November 22. This incident tragically took the life of 19-year-old Monroe College student Amira McLeod, also injuring two 20-year-olds from Nassau Community College.
Authorities are still looking into whether the victims were targeted or simply caught in the crossfire.
The two injured students have been treated and released from the hospital, but their identities remain undisclosed. McMillan, hailing from Baldwin, faces charges that include murder, attempted murder, possession of weapons, and robbery.
He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Wednesday and is being held without bail, according to the Nassau District Attorney’s Office.
University officials previously noted that McLeod was a “valued member” of the Express women’s basketball team, expressing deep sorrow over her passing.
She played on the Bronx campus and tragically died just nine games into her sophomore season.
“We are maintaining close communication with Amira’s family, teammates, and roommates, providing them with our full support as they navigate this unimaginable loss,” said a statement from the university.
The 5-foot-3 guard was particularly known for her defensive skills, averaging almost two steals per game. Just hours before her death, she contributed significantly to a 67-44 win against Dutchess Community College, playing a season-high 30 minutes.
She was pursuing a degree in business administration with aspirations to transfer to a four-year institution. McLeod’s ambition included opening her own clothing and sneaker store someday.
Although she was pronounced dead at the scene, the two young men injured in the shooting were reported to be in stable condition.
Her team, which began the season with an 8-1 record, continued to perform remarkably, securing a 21-point victory over Suffolk County Community College just three days following her death. Head coach Damell Ring remarked that the win was a tribute to McLeod, emphasizing that it was the team’s decision to go ahead with the game.
