3 Teens Attacked With Machete In Park On Long Island
WEST HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Three teenagers were stabbed, one of them critically, at Hempstead Lake State Park in West Hempstead, New York, State Park Police told CBS2.
The attack occurred around 3:15 p.m. while the teens were walking along a path inside the park.
CBS2's Lou Young reported the scene is less than a mile from Hempstead High School whose principal was speaking with detectives at the scene hours after the assault. Residents believe the victims were specifically targeted.
"I heard it was some sort of between kids at Hempstead High School, so it's very unusual," Rockville Centre resident Emil Mazzanobile said. "It's usually quiet."
Hempstead High School was locked tight Monday evening. School officials have privately expressed concern over possible reprisal violence when classes resume.
CBS2's Jennifer McLogan reported that witnesses said the incident may have been between gangs.
1010 WINS' Samantha Liebman reported the stabbing happened yards away from a Rockville Centre sports complex.
One of the teens underwent surgery at Mercy Hospital.
"Three of the teenagers suffered stab wounds from the assault and were transported to area hospitals," Randy Simons, public information officer for the New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, said.
McLogan reported they were being told to advise families and children to enjoy the evening.
"We just got fresh news that I'm trying to confirm that the fields have not been closed," high school coach Anthony Silecchia said. "Still, I don't know what the family reactions are going to be to having their children playing on these fields tonight. I'm just going to handle my team and the people I'm in charge of and I guess everyone else will have to do the same with their individual teams."
Parents told 1010 WINS they were surprised about what happened.
"It doesn't happen in our community, so it's very upsetting that something like this took place," one mother said.
Police said they are looking for approximately four suspects. One is allegedly armed with a machete, while the others are carrying knives.
