The small, tight-knit community of Conklin, New York, is reeling after a deadly shooting rocked the town on Friday morning. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that 21-year-old Matthew S. Bartosik has been charged with multiple felonies, including second-degree murder, following the death of Michael Lewis and the critical injury of Jessica Kalyn Lewis.

The tragic incident unfolded at approximately 10:45 a.m. on Leslie Avenue, a quiet residential street where neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots. According to law enforcement, Bartosik is accused of fatally shooting 37-year-old Michael Lewis and critically injuring 34-year-old Jessica Kalyn Lewis at a residence they were visiting.

The Scene of the Tragedy

Leslie Avenue was transformed into a scene of chaos as deputies from the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and troopers from the New York State Police rushed to the site after receiving a 911 call reporting an active shooter. According to witnesses, the usually tranquil neighborhood was soon swarmed by law enforcement vehicles, with officers moving cautiously as they approached the property.

One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, described the harrowing moments when officers attempted to enter the residence. “They opened the front door, and the guns went off,” the witness recounted. “They retreated to put on their vests and came back with rifles.”

Inside the home, law enforcement found Michael Lewis deceased from gunshot wounds. Jessica Kalyn Lewis, who sustained multiple gunshot injuries, was rushed to UHS Wilson Medical Center. As of the latest reports, she remains in critical condition, fighting for her life.

Apprehending the Suspect

Despite the violent nature of the incident, law enforcement was able to apprehend the suspect, Matthew Bartosik, without further escalation. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether Bartosik resisted arrest or made any statements during his apprehension.

Sheriff Fred Akshar addressed the media in a press briefing later that day, stating, “What I can tell the public is that there is no ongoing public danger. The suspect is in custody, and we are working diligently to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic event.”

The Charges Against Bartosik

Bartosik has been charged with a series of serious felonies, reflecting the gravity of the incident:

• Murder in the 2nd Degree: For the death of Michael Lewis.
• Attempted Murder in the 1st and 2nd Degrees: For the shooting of Jessica Kalyn Lewis.
• Criminal Use of a Firearm in the 1st Degree: For discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent crime.
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd Degree: For possessing a firearm unlawfully.
• Aggravated Criminal Possession of a Weapon: For possessing a firearm under aggravated circumstances.
• Criminal Contempt in the 1st Degree: A charge that has not yet been elaborated upon but is believed to relate to a prior legal matter involving Bartosik.

Following his arraignment, Bartosik was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility without bail.

A Community Shaken

The Town of Conklin, known for its quiet suburban lifestyle, is struggling to come to terms with the violence. Leslie Avenue, along with nearby Suncrest Drive and Inamour Drive, was cordoned off for several hours as law enforcement conducted their investigation.

Neighbors expressed shock and disbelief that such an event could happen in their community. “You don’t expect something like this here,” said one resident. “We’re all just trying to process what happened.”

The Victims

Michael Lewis, the deceased victim, was described by friends and family as a kind and hardworking man. He had been a lifelong resident of Broome County and was well-known in the local community.

Jessica Kalyn Lewis, who remains in critical condition, is believed to have been a close associate of Michael Lewis. Authorities have not disclosed the nature of their relationship but confirmed they were together at the residence when the shooting occurred.

Unanswered Questions

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the motive behind the shooting. Sheriff Akshar stated, “We are exploring all possibilities, including the relationship between the suspect and the victims. This is an active and ongoing investigation, and we will release more information as it becomes available.”

One element of the case that has puzzled investigators is the Criminal Contempt charge against Bartosik. While authorities have declined to elaborate, legal experts speculate that it may relate to a prior court order or ongoing legal dispute.

Calls for Information

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have witnessed the events leading up to the shooting or has knowledge of Bartosik’s recent activities.

A Broader Reflection

The tragic events in Conklin have sparked discussions about gun violence and mental health in small communities. Local officials have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families and pledged to support efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“We are heartbroken for the families affected by this senseless tragedy,” said Sheriff Akshar. “Our community is stronger when we come together in the face of adversity.”

Looking Ahead

As Conklin mourns the loss of Michael Lewis and prays for the recovery of Jessica Kalyn Lewis, the legal process for Matthew Bartosik is just beginning. The Broome County District Attorney’s Office has stated that they will pursue the charges against Bartosik to the fullest extent of the law.

Meanwhile, the community has come together to support the victims’ families. A local church has organized a candlelight vigil, scheduled for next week, to honor the lives affected by the tragedy.