Selden, N.Y. — In a tragic domestic incident on Long Island, a 15-year-old boy was arrested late Monday for the fatal stabbing of his grandmother and the wounding of his mother, Suffolk County police reported.
The violent episode occurred just before 10 p.m. at their family home situated in Selden. After being attacked, 36-year-old Vanessa Chendemi managed to escape and flagged down a passing driver who aided her in calling the authorities.
Upon police arrival at the home located on 802 Old Town Rd, they discovered the boy’s grandmother, 56-year-old Concetta Chendemi, with multiple stab wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Vanessa Chendemi was promptly taken to a nearby hospital where she was reported to be in stable condition.
Following the altercation, the teenager fled the scene, prompting a search by law enforcement. He was apprehended shortly after at an intersection close to the home.
Authorities have since charged the young suspect with murder and attempted murder. Due to legal protections for minors, the police have not released his name.
As investigators continue to piece together the circumstances leading to this tragic event, motives for the attack remain uncertain. The community remains shocked by the brutality of the incident, raising concerns about domestic violence and youth behavior in crises.
Neighbors and community members described the Chendemis as a quiet family, expressing heartbreak over the violent acts. “It’s just tragic to see such events unfold in our neighborhood,” one neighbor mentioned, highlighting a sense of disbelief in the typically peaceful area.
The young suspect is expected to face the charges in an upcoming court session, which is scheduled for Tuesday. As the case develops, Suffolk County officials urge community members to provide any relevant information they might have to assist in establishing a clear narrative for these devastating actions.
Incidents like these also shed light on the importance of mental health and conflict resolution education, prompting discussions around how communities can better support families dealing with internal crisis to prevent such tragedies.
The long-term implications of this event on the family and community are yet unmeasured, but advocates for domestic peace stress the need for continued awareness and intervention strategies to support vulnerable family members in volatile situations. The hope is to foster safer and more resilient community environments moving forward.