West Babylon, NY – A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of 15-year-old Liam Delemo during a large house party that drew nearly 100 attendees. The tragic incident took place on the night of November 3 in West Babylon, shocking the local community and prompting renewed discussions about teen violence and supervision at underage gatherings.
Details of the Fatal Incident
According to the Suffolk County Police Department, officers responded to reports of a stabbing at a house on America Avenue shortly after 10:30 p.m. The home, where the incident occurred, was hosting a massive party attended by approximately 90 to 100 teenagers.
During the event, an argument reportedly escalated into a physical altercation between two teens. Police say the 17-year-old suspect allegedly stabbed Delemo during the fight. The victim was immediately transported to a nearby hospital but died during surgery as a result of his injuries. Officials confirmed that Delemo, a student at West Babylon High School, was only weeks away from turning 16.
Suspect and Charges Filed
The 17-year-old suspect, whose name has not been released due to his age, was charged as a juvenile with second-degree murder. He was taken into custody at his home in Syosset, Nassau County, and arraigned on Monday, November 11, in Suffolk County’s First District Court. Authorities have not released additional details about the motive behind the fight, but investigators confirmed that several partygoers have been questioned as witnesses.
Community in Mourning
The tragedy has deeply affected the West Babylon School District, where Delemo was a well-known student. Following the incident, West Babylon High School delayed its opening to allow staff and students to process the news. Grief counselors and support services were made available on campus to help students cope with the loss of their classmate.
Superintendent Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly issued a brief statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and classmates, noting that the district is “heartbroken by this senseless loss of a young life.”
Additional Charges for Homeowner
In addition to the suspect’s arrest, 70-year-old Bonnie Miranda, the grandmother of the teen who hosted the party, has been charged under Suffolk County’s Social Host Law and with endangering the welfare of a child. Authorities allege that Miranda failed to properly supervise the event and allowed underage drinking to occur in her home, violating local regulations meant to prevent such tragedies.
The Social Host Law makes it illegal for homeowners to knowingly permit minors to consume alcohol on their property. Violations can lead to fines and criminal penalties. Police said the law aims to hold adults accountable when parties involving minors result in serious harm.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
Neighbors told local outlets that large gatherings had taken place at the residence before but never escalated to violence. Many described the night as “chaotic,” with teens running into the street as police and emergency services arrived. The community continues to mourn Delemo’s death, leaving flowers and candles at a makeshift memorial near the site of the stabbing.
Police officials stated that the investigation remains ongoing and that additional charges could be filed depending on the outcome of the forensic and witness reports.
A Growing Concern Over Teen Violence
This incident highlights growing concerns among parents and law enforcement about underage parties and teen altercations across Long Island. Authorities urge parents to remain vigilant and discuss safety and conflict resolution with their children. The Suffolk County Police Department emphasized that tragedies like this are preventable with proper supervision and awareness.
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