Heightened Police Presence in Downtown Patchogue Coincided with Nearby Shooting Involving Teen Gunman Damarion James

Heightened Police Presence in Downtown Patchogue Coincided with Nearby Shooting Involving Teen Gunman Damarion James

PATCHOGUE, N.Y. — What began as a joyful start to summer at the first ‘Alive After Five’ street festival quickly turned tense as residents noticed a significant police presence in downtown Patchogue on Thursday, June 26, 2025. Armed members of the Suffolk County Police Emergency Service Unit, including officers stationed with long guns atop local rooftops, sparked questions and concern across the community.

At the same time, an unrelated and alarming shooting involving two teenagers unfolded just a half mile away, adding to the day’s unease.

A Show of Security, Not a Specific Threat

Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina addressed public concerns on Friday, clarifying that the rooftop officers were not responding to any direct threat tied to the event. Instead, they were stationed as part of a standard public safety strategy for large-scale gatherings.

“With thousands of people gathered in downtown Patchogue, it’s our duty to make sure they’re protected,” Commissioner Catalina said. “Positioning officers on rooftops allows us to respond quickly to any active threat. It’s about readiness and keeping the public safe.”

Nearby Teen Shooting: Damarion James Charged

While the festival unfolded, a separate shooting incident erupted nearby. Around 4:30 p.m., Suffolk County Police responded to gunfire at the intersection of Edwards Street and Rider Avenue, where 14-year-old Damarion James allegedly shot 17-year-old Marcus Hinton multiple times during an altercation.

Police say Damarion James then turned the weapon on himself, sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the hand. Both teenagers were transported to local hospitals. Marcus Hinton remains in serious but non-life-threatening condition, while Damarion was treated and released into police custody.

Authorities later charged Damarion James with first-degree assault and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Community Tensions Rise

Although police quickly confirmed the two incidents were unrelated, the proximity of a violent shooting to the heavily attended public event raised alarm. Observers unfamiliar with the department’s security measures were rattled by the visible deployment of officers with high-powered firearms.

Commissioner Catalina sought to reassure the public, stating that such precautions are common at crowded events across Suffolk County and will continue moving forward.

“You may not always see them, but the presence is there—on the ground, in the air, and yes, sometimes on rooftops,” he said. “It’s about staying ahead of danger before it happens.”

Future Events and Security

The ‘Alive After Five’ festival will resume in the coming weeks, with the police department confirming that heightened security measures will remain in place. While Damarion James awaits court proceedings, Suffolk police are continuing their investigation into the shooting and any contributing factors.

A Community on Alert

As Patchogue tries to balance summer fun with necessary precautions, residents are reminded of the importance of vigilance and community awareness. The events of June 26 served as a stark reminder that even moments of celebration must be met with preparedness and cooperation.