51°
Thomas Mascia, age 27, was released from Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow on Friday morning, Nov. 1.
Law enforcement officers from across Nassau and Suffolk counties gathered outside the hospital for a “walk-out” ceremony honoring the injured trooper.
“I’m feeling good,” he told the crowd. “I’m going home.”
The jubilant scene came two days after Mascia was shot while approaching what he assumed was a disabled vehicle on the westbound Southern State Parkway in West Hempstead, at around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30.
New York State Police said Mascia exited his patrol car and was walking toward the vehicle when he heard several shots and realized he had been shot in the leg. He took cover behind his patrol car as the suspect fled the scene.
“He was able to retrieve his first aid bag and tend to his own wounds,” State Police Superintendent Steven James said.
Mascia was taken to a hospital and underwent surgery on his leg.
"Trooper Mascia's desire was to help someone who appeared to need assistance, unfortunately, Trooper Mascia's good intentions were met with unexpected gunshots directed at him from a coward, who without any provocation, good shot, or good cause, began to shoot at him," said Major Steve Eustace.
State Police described the suspect vehicle as a black Dodge Charger with temporary New Jersey plates 997636T. The vehicle has custom matte gray dual exhaust tips.
"We have launched an all-out search for the suspect's vehicle," police said.
There is no bodycam footage of the shooting because Mascia did not activate the light bar on his patrol car, police said, adding that Mascia did not fire any shots.
A combined $15,000 reward – $10,000 from CopShot and another $5,000 from Suffolk County Crime Stoppers – is being offered for information leading to the suspect’s conviction.
Anyone with information can contact New York State Police at 631-756-3300 or by emailing crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.
This continues to be a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Great Neck and receive free news updates.
