By Andrew Hackmack
Authorities are still trying to figure out why a group of as many as 15 men beat up the 30-year-old victim, but they said the attack may have been racially motivated.
As of Tuesday, the man was in critical condition at South Nassau Communities Hospital. "We don't believe that the injuries are life-threatening," said Nassau County police spokesman Detective Sgt. Anthony Repalone.
Two 18-year-olds, Domineek Washington of Princeton Street and Jimmy Blaise of Garfield Avenue, were arrested.
At about 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, the victim walked out his door at 110 Broadway to move his car from the street into the driveway, Repalone said. While in his car, the man was approached by a group of 12 to 15 African-American male teenagers. According to a police report, when he stepped out, he was attacked immediately, before any words were exchanged. Repalone said that the teenagers repeatedly punched and kicked the man, who is white.
According to police, the victim was hosting a small gathering at his home for the Fourth of July, and a witness at the party may have heard someone in the group say something that would indicate that the attack was based on race. However, that is still being investigated, Repalone said.
After the attack, the victim's mother reportedly ran outside and said that she had called police, causing the group to disperse. She made a 911 call from a cell phone, police said, but because of the home's proximity to New York City, the call went to the NYPD. Nassau County Police received the information but were unable to identify the caller. Repalone said that county police did not show up until later Sunday, when the victim's injuries worsened and he decided to seek medical attention.
Police transported the man to South Nassau Communities Hospital, where he was treated for a fractured eye socket and a concussion. Police do not believe any weapons were used in the attack.
Repalone said that police interviewed the victim and hope to speak to him again when he has recovered. He added that the man has said that he did not know any of his assailants. "We don't know what the motive is at this point," Repalone said.
Washington was arrested on Broadway late Monday morning. Blaise was taken into custody that night at his home. Both were charged with felony counts of second-degree gang assault.
Fifth Precinct crime analyst Stanley Slevinski explained that a gang assault charge does not necessarily mean the teens are members of a gang. "It has to do with the amount of people committing the crime," Slevinski said. Gang assault is charged when three or more people are involved in an attack.
Mayor Ed Cahill said it is important for people to know that this was not an attack committed by a roving gang. "Valley Stream is a safe place," Cahill said. "People should not be guided by this type of isolated incident."
The suspects were arraigned on Tuesday in First District Court. The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 244-TIPS.
Comments about this story? AHackmack@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 265.
