Long Island, New York – Authorities on Long Island, New York, have arrested a 17-year-old male accused of fatally stabbing a 15-year-old honor student during a chaotic house party attended by nearly 100 teenagers.
Deadly Altercation at West Babylon Party
The Suffolk County Police Department reported that the stabbing occurred late on Nov. 3 during a large gathering at a residence in West Babylon. Officers responded after a fight broke out among the teens at the party.
When police arrived, they found Liam Delemo, 15, suffering from stab wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries, authorities said.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
After a weeklong investigation, police announced on Nov. 10 that they had arrested a 17-year-old suspect, whose name has been withheld due to his age. The teen, who attends Syosset High School, has been charged with second-degree murder, according to NBC4 New York.
If convicted, he faces 25 years to life in prison.
Parents Describe the Tragic Scene
Delemo’s parents, Michael and Hope Delemo, spoke to CBS New York, describing the horrifying moments when they arrived at the party after learning their son had been stabbed.
“He was stabbed once in the left side of the gut and he had a huge slice down the left side of his arm,” said Mike Delemo. “My son is laid out on a deck bleeding, basically, at that point, to death.”
Friends and family remembered Liam as a bright, kind-hearted honor student in his junior year at West Babylon High School.
Community Rallies for the Family
A GoFundMe page has been launched to help the Delemo family with funeral expenses.
“To know Liam was to love him,” the fundraiser reads. “His laughter, his kindness, and his pure heart brought light to all around him. No family should ever have to face such pain alone.”
The campaign has drawn an outpouring of support from classmates, teachers, and neighbors who described Liam as a “joyful and hardworking” student.
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Homeowner Also Charged
In addition to the murder arrest, police also took Bonnie Miranda, the homeowner, into custody. Investigators said she allegedly allowed her grandchild to host the unsupervised gathering where the fatal stabbing occurred.
Miranda has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child and violating Suffolk County’s social host law, which prohibits adults from knowingly allowing underage drinking parties. It remains unclear whether she has entered a plea.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the Suffolk County Police Department’s Homicide Squad.
Should stricter penalties be enforced for adults who allow underage parties that lead to violence? Share your thoughts in the comments at betheladvocate.com.
