West Babylon, New York: Suffolk County police are investigating a shooting reported in West Babylon, New York, after at least one gunshot was fired in the backyard of a residence on Columbus Avenue near Rutgers Road.
According to police, detectives responded to the neighborhood shortly after 4 p.m. Monday, August 17, 2026, following reports of gunfire. Authorities said at least one shot was fired in the rear yard of a home.
No injuries or property damage were reported in the incident, according to News 12 Long Island.
A witness told News 12 that she heard a gunshot and believed she saw three people wearing ski masks running from a home. That account has not been independently established by police and should therefore be treated as a witness report rather than a confirmed description of suspects.
As of the latest available reporting, investigators had not publicly identified a suspect or announced any arrests connected with the West Babylon shooting.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to determine what led to the gunfire and who may have been involved. Further information is expected as authorities continue gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses.
Residents are encouraged to rely on official police updates as the investigation develops rather than unverified claims circulating online.