Long Island Man Hospitalized After Suspected Suicide Attempt

A man from Long Island, armed with a sword, has been hospitalized following an incident on Tuesday where he appeared to provoke police officers into a fatal confrontation. Thankfully, he’s alive after being shot.

According to Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina, Joseph Restino, 33, called 911 from his Bayshore home. He reportedly claimed to have hostages inside and stated intentions to end his life.

When officers arrived and knocked on the door, Restino confronted them brandishing a sword. He demanded that they chase after a homeowner while he held the weapon. Despite his erratic behavior, he continued to shoot at himself, firing at least once into his chest.

Upon entering the residence, police found no hostages. The initial 911 call was viewed as a diversion, perhaps a desperate plea for help during a suicidal episode.

Restino survived the shooting and underwent surgery at South Shore University Hospital later that evening.

Currently, there are no charges against him, but that could change as he recovers, Suffolk County police mentioned. Fortunately, none of the officers who responded to the incident were injured.

This occurrence marks the second police-related shooting in the North Bayshore area in less than two weeks. Just earlier, on July 24, a man named Nieves Reyes allegedly attacked his colleague with a machete, leading to a Suffolk County officer being shot in the face. Reyes has since pleaded not guilty to charges including second-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.

Residents nearby reported hearing both incidents unfold, highlighting a troubling pattern in the area.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, or experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out for help. In New York City, you can call 888-NYC-Well for confidential crisis counseling. If you’re outside the city, dialing 988 connects you to the national suicide prevention lifeline.