A quiet Far Rockaway neighborhood was left in shock after a tragic barricade incident claimed the lives of Selena Ponce, 28, and her mother, Clemer Ponce, 56, inside their Ocean Crest Boulevard home. Police allege that the two women were fatally shot by Kegan Thomas, 33, who is Selena’s brother and Clemer’s son, before a tense confrontation with the New York Police Department unfolded on Saturday.
According to investigators, the incident began when Thomas’ wife called 911, prompting officers to respond to the residence. Upon arrival, police said Thomas had barricaded himself inside the home while wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying a shotgun. During the standoff, an explosion occurred inside the house, creating an even more dangerous situation for first responders.
Members of the NYPD Emergency Service Unit entered the home and repeatedly ordered Thomas to surrender and drop his weapon. Authorities said he refused to comply despite numerous verbal commands. Officers then discharged their weapons, striking Thomas, who was transported to a hospital in critical condition.
After securing the scene, officers discovered the bodies of Selena Ponce and Clemer Ponce inside the residence. Investigators believe the two women were killed before police arrived. The motive behind the shootings remains under investigation, and no formal charges had been announced as Thomas remained hospitalized.
Neighbors described the incident as heartbreaking and recalled previous disturbances at the home, saying they had often heard loud arguments. The tragedy has devastated the Far Rockaway community, with many mourning the loss of two beloved family members while hoping for answers about what led to this unimaginable act of violence. The investigation remains ongoing.
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