New York State Police investigating Trooper Thomas Mascia's story about shooting on Long Island
WEST HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- New York State Police and the Nassau County DA say they have launched an investigation into the credibility of a New York state trooper's report of being shot last week while on patrol.
The trooper's home in West Hempstead has been a flurry of activity all day Monday. Days ago, police were protecting his home. They came back Monday on a different mission - with a search warrant. The searched his home and cars. There is a large police presence and the street is blocked off.
Now, authorities say Trooper Thomas Mascia has been suspended without pay.
"Certain inconsistencies" being scrutinized
Officials with New York State Police say it's "an investigation into the circumstances of the shooting," pertaining to its credibility. The Nassau DA's office is "actively investigating certain inconsistencies identified in the reporting of a shooting incident."
Mascia, 27, claimed that he was shot by a driver on the Southern State Parkway, about a mile from his home. It was a story of heroism. Mascia said he stopped to help what looked like a disabled motorist on the Southern State Parkway, and the driver opened fire, hitting him in the leg. He applied his own tourniquet.
He was saluted by law enforcement as he was released from the hospital, with his parents by his side.
The investigation led to a manhunt involving the NYPD and federal agencies and a $15,000 reward. Mascia provided the description of the car, and a temporary tag number. Monday, state police canceled the alert for people to be on the lookout for the vehicle.
There was no body camera video of the alleged incident. Police said Mascia didn't activate the camera.
Neighbors spoke glowingly of Mascia, who grew up in West Hempstead. They are now confused, and concerned.
"All I can tell you is he is a good guy. They have have to make sure the story is true," one neighbor said. "He got a bullet wound. I believe him. Until otherwise, I believe that man."
"Police know what they are doing. Just let the investigation go where it goes. Everyone is interested in the truth," another neighbor said.
Investigators say they will be providing more information.
