In a tragic turn of events on a Sunday afternoon in September 2020, a heated argument between a father and son in their Staten Island home culminated in a fatal shooting. Joseph Smith, a 34-year-old male, was shot once in the stomach by his father, also named Joseph Smith, inside their residence on Beverly Road in the Concord neighborhood. The incident, which occurred around 12:45 p.m.
on September 27th, prompted a swift response from the 122nd Precinct and emergency medical services.
Despite being rushed to Staten Island University Hospital, the younger Joseph Smith succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. His 68-year-old father was immediately taken into custody at the scene. Investigators recovered the shotgun used in the shooting, as well as two other firearms from the home. While the guns were registered, the registrations were reportedly not current.
Following the incident, the elder Joseph Smith was charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon. He claimed the shooting was an accident, stating he believed the safety was engaged on the shotgun. After his arrest, he was taken to Richmond University Medical Center for a psychological evaluation before facing arraignment in Staten Island Criminal Court. The case highlighted a deadly instance of domestic violence within the borough.
