Irondequoit, New York – A tragic incident unfolded in Irondequoit, New York, as a 24-year-old man took the life of his 80-year-old grandfather before eventually ending his own life. The events led to a closure and evacuation of Letchworth State Park as law enforcement conducted a search for the suspect.
The 24-year-old, identified as Andrew Vahey, was located on a hiking trail within Letchworth State Park, where he took his own life as police closed in on him. Irondequoit Police Chief Scott Peters provided details during an evening press conference, highlighting the intense search that drew various law enforcement agencies along the Genesee River.
Authorities revealed that the confrontation stemmed from a domestic dispute between Vahey and his grandfather, Joseph Deponceau. Deponceau was found deceased in his home by authorities who responded to a 911 call. Prior to the tragic incident, Vahey allegedly sent texts to his roommate confessing to the act and stating his intentions to harm himself.
Law enforcement officers encountered Vahey in the park, armed with a long gun, prompting them to attempt to communicate with him. Tragically, Vahey turned the weapon on himself before any intervention could take place. This act marked the culmination of a family dispute that had escalated in recent days, even leading to a police response at Deponceau’s residence the week before.
The community in Irondequoit was left shaken by the events, as an investigation into the circumstances of the tragedy continued. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing conflicts and seeking help before they escalate to irreparable consequences. As authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the incident, the community mourns the loss of two lives in a heartbreaking turn of events.