Crime
21-year-old Matthew Bartosik charged with murder for fatal shooting in Conklin
A Friday morning shooting in Conklin claimed the life of one man and left a woman seriously injured, according to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident unfolded on Leslie Avenue, prompting a swift response from local and state law enforcement agencies.
The deceased victim has been identified as Michael Lewis, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
A second victim, Jessica Kalyn Lewis, sustained serious injuries and was transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center, where she remains in critical condition.
At approximately 10:45 a.m., deputies and New York State Police officers responded to reports of a shooting involving a handgun at a residence on Leslie Avenue in the Town of Conklin. Upon arrival, officers encountered immediate resistance.
According to an anonymous witness, officers entering the property were met with gunfire. “They opened the front door and the guns went off,” the witness reported. “They retreated to put on their vests and returned with rifles.”
Despite the chaos, law enforcement successfully apprehended the suspect without further escalation.
The suspect, Matthew S. Bartosik, 21, has been charged with a series of felonies, including:
- Murder in the 2nd Degree (for the death of Michael Lewis)
- Attempted Murder in the 1st and 2nd Degrees (for the shooting of Jessica Kalyn Lewis)
- Criminal Use of a Firearm in the 1st Degree
- Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd Degree
- Aggravated Criminal Possession of a Weapon
- Criminal Contempt in the 1st Degree
Bartosik was arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility, where he awaits further legal proceedings.
Sheriff Fred Akshar assured the public that there is no ongoing threat. “What I can tell the public is that there is no ongoing public danger,” Akshar stated during a press briefing.
In the immediate aftermath, areas surrounding Leslie Avenue, including Suncrest Drive and Inamour Drive, were shut down to ensure public safety and facilitate the investigation.
Officials confirmed that the investigation is active and ongoing, with additional details expected as the case develops.
Authorities encourage anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit.
This tragic event has left the Conklin community reeling, as investigators work to uncover the motives and circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Crime
Brazoria County Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas shot and killed in the line of duty
The suspect has been identified as Robert Lee Davis III, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, a 56-year-old male.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brazoria County Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas, who was tragically shot and killed in the line of duty earlier today while serving his community.
Deputy Vargas, a dedicated 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, leaves behind his wife and three children, as well as a legacy of honorable service to his department and community.
Deputy Vargas was fatally shot while attempting to serve a warrant against a repeat violent offender for aggravated assault.
The suspect opened fire as Vargas approached, striking him fatally. The incident occurred on Stella Link Road near the I-610 South Loop in Houston.
Despite immediate efforts, Deputy Vargas succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
A massive law enforcement response ensued, with multiple agencies working together to locate the suspect.
The suspect has been identified as Robert Lee Davis III, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, a 56-year-old male.
Description of the Suspect:
- Height: 5’10”
- Weight: Approximately 200 pounds
- Appearance: Black hair, brown eyes
- Clothing: Blue Nike hoodie with white lettering, blue jeans, and blue sneakers
A Blue Alert has been issued statewide. Law enforcement agencies, including K9 units and Texas DPS helicopters, are conducting an active manhunt to locate Davis, who remains at large. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any information to 911 immediately.
A perimeter has been established around the area, with roadways blocked and a significant police presence, including the Houston Police Department, Texas DPS, and members of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Harris County Constable Alan Rosen have expressed their condolences and support.
Constable Rosen stated:
“We are praying for the officer shot while serving a warrant this morning. Please keep this officer and his family in your prayers. Deputies from my office are working tirelessly alongside other agencies to apprehend the suspect.”
The Houston Police Department confirmed the ongoing search via social media, noting that the suspect fled the scene after the shooting.
Deputy Vargas was deeply respected by his colleagues and community for his unwavering dedication and service. His passing is a devastating loss, not only for his family but also for the entire Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office.
In this time of grief, we ask the public to join us in offering prayers and support for Deputy Vargas’s family, friends, and colleagues. Mental health and grief counseling services will be made available to members of the Sheriff’s Office and their families.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the investigation and the ongoing search for the suspect.
Deputy Vargas’s sacrifice serves as a solemn reminder of the risks taken by law enforcement officers to protect and serve. His commitment to justice and public safety will never be forgotten.