During a confidential investigation in Bohemia, Long Island, Suffolk County police were attempting to arrest 33-year-old Brandon Scanlon of Middle Island when he fled in his minivan, hitting an officer with the vehicle as he drove away. The officers then pursued Scanlon as he led them on a chase through multiple towns, ultimately ending up in Bay Shore. Newsday reported that Scanlon allegedly began shooting at the officers from his car, prompting the police to return fire. The chase continued for 25 minutes until Scanlon finally crashed his van into a tree on North Sunrise Highway Service Road.
After the crash, officers found Scanlon in the car with a gunshot wound that was believed to have come from one of their service weapons. They also discovered a ghost gun inside the vehicle. Scanlon was taken to a local hospital for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries, while five officers involved in the incident were also evaluated at the hospital. Scanlon was subsequently charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and second-degree assault. The press release did not provide any details on why Scanlon was originally being investigated by the police.
Acting Suffolk County Police Commissioner Robert Waring emphasized the dangers that police officers face on a daily basis, noting that Scanlon had not only hit an officer with his van but had also fired at the police during the chase. Waring stated that it was crucial for the officers to apprehend this dangerous individual and prevent any further harm. The intense confrontation between Scanlon and the police during the high-speed chase highlighted the risks that law enforcement officers are exposed to in the line of duty.
The dramatic events that unfolded during Scanlon’s attempted escape from arrest resembled something out of a Hollywood movie, with a car chase, gunfire, and a dramatic crash at the end. The fact that Scanlon was armed and willing to engage in a gun battle with the police added an additional layer of danger to the situation. The use of a ghost gun, a firearm without a serial number that is untraceable, raised concerns about the prevalence of illegal weapons on the streets. The incident underscored the need for law enforcement to apprehend individuals like Scanlon who pose a threat to public safety.
Despite being injured during the chase, Scanlon’s actions put multiple officers at risk and resulted in a dangerous situation that could have had more severe consequences. The fact that five officers had to be evaluated at the hospital following the incident further highlighted the physical risks involved in police work. The charges brought against Scanlon, including possession of a weapon and assault, reflected the seriousness of his actions and the need to hold him accountable for his behavior. The incident served as a reminder of the challenges that law enforcement officers encounter while carrying out their duties and the importance of ensuring the safety of both officers and the public.
