Far Rockaway, New York — A 33-year-old Queens man accused of fatally shooting his mother and sister before a devastating explosion destroyed their shared home now faces multiple felony charges, including murder, arson, attempted murder, and aggravated cruelty to animals. Authorities also revealed that the family’s dog and cat died in the fire, adding another tragic dimension to the violent incident that unfolded over the weekend.
Murder Charges Filed Following Deadly Family Tragedy
Police identified the suspect as Kegan Thomas, who was formally charged Tuesday while recovering in a hospital after being shot by responding New York City police officers.
According to investigators, Thomas is accused of shooting his mother, 56-year-old Clemer Ponce, in the chest and his 28-year-old sister, Selema Ponce, in the shoulder inside their home on Ocean Crest Boulevard near Hartman Lane in Far Rockaway.
In addition to two counts of murder, Thomas has been charged with attempted murder, arson, criminal possession of a weapon, and aggravated cruelty to animals.
Pets Died in Fire After Explosion
Authorities said a family dog and cat died from smoke inhalation after the home erupted in flames. Police confirmed the deaths of the pets led to the aggravated cruelty to animals charge included in the criminal complaint.
The explosion occurred moments before officers attempted to enter the home after receiving an emergency call reporting the shootings.
Investigators continue working to determine the exact cause of the explosion and whether it was intentionally set.
911 Call Warned Officers About Armed Suspect
According to Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, the suspect’s wife called 911, telling dispatchers that her husband had allegedly killed his mother and sister.
She also warned responding officers to use caution because Thomas was reportedly armed with a shotgun.
McIntosh said the caller also reported that Thomas had a history of mental illness, though police later stated he had no documented criminal record or prior mental health history with the NYPD.
As members of the NYPD’s Emergency Services Unit prepared to force entry into the home, the situation escalated dramatically.
Explosion Followed by Armed Confrontation
Just before officers entered the residence, a massive explosion ripped through the home, engulfing it in flames.vPolice said Thomas then emerged from the burning house wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying a shotgun.
Officers repeatedly ordered him to drop the weapon and surrender. According to police, Thomas failed to comply with multiple commands while remaining armed, prompting officers to open fire.
He was struck by police gunfire and transported to Jamaica Hospital, where officials said he remained in critical but stable condition as of Tuesday.
Neighbors Describe Troubled History
While police said Thomas had no prior criminal record or documented mental health history with the department, neighbors described longstanding concerns.
Several residents told local media they had witnessed frequent domestic disturbances at the home over the years.
One neighbor claimed there was “something crazy about him,” while another alleged that domestic violence incidents regularly occurred inside the residence.
Authorities have not commented on those statements, and investigators continue gathering evidence as the criminal case moves forward.
Prosecutors have not yet announced when Thomas will be formally arraigned.
What are your thoughts on this tragic case? Should there be stronger intervention when repeated reports of domestic violence or behavioral concerns arise? Share your opinion in the comments below.
