by Huntington, NY – A 71-year-old Huntington man was arrested over the weekend after shooting a 21-year-old stranger who reportedly chased him outside a Starbucks early Saturday morning, authorities confirmed. The incident, which left the younger man hospitalized, is now under investigation by Suffolk County law enforcement.
Confrontation Outside Starbucks
Police reports indicate that the shooting occurred just before 5 a.m. Saturday at the Starbucks located at 1 Wall Street in Huntington. According to the criminal complaint, the 21-year-old man from Fort Salonga was pursuing John Rech, prompting a violent confrontation.
The exact reason for the chase remains unclear, but during the encounter, Rech fired a handgun, striking the younger man in the stomach and leg.
Victim Receives Medical Treatment
The 21-year-old was transported to Huntington Hospital, where he underwent surgery for serious but non-life-threatening injuries, authorities said. Police and prosecutors emphasized that the victim’s wounds were stabilizing and he was expected to recover.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
Following the incident, John Rech, a lifelong Huntington resident, was taken into custody and charged with felony assault. Authorities confirmed that Rech legally owned the firearm, which was recovered at the scene.
Rech was ordered held on $25,000 cash bail, a $50,000 bond, or a $250,000 partially secured bond. He is scheduled to appear in court again on January 15, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
Defense Claims Self-Defense
Rech’s attorney, Robert Macedonio, told reporters that he is confident the charges will be dismissed, citing his client’s legal right to carry a firearm and defend himself.
“John is a licensed firearm holder authorized to have concealed carry,” Macedonio said. “We are gathering all the video footage from several locations in Huntington Village where this incident took place. We believe that once we review all evidence, it will show that Mr. Rech acted appropriately within the law and these charges will be dismissed.”
Authorities are currently reviewing video footage and other evidence to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
Community Reaction
The early-morning shooting outside a busy Starbucks has left residents and local business owners shocked. Many have expressed concern about safety in the area, while others have urged caution in interpreting the events until the investigation concludes.
Police have reassured the community that the situation was isolated and that no additional suspects are believed to be involved.
Do you believe self-defense claims should be strongly weighed in cases like this? How should gun owners protect themselves in public confrontations? Join the conversation in the comments below.
