A Bay Shore man accused of nearly decapitating a former coworker and later shooting a Suffolk police officer in the face during a violent standoff has been indicted on murder and attempted murder charges, District Attorney Raymond Tierney announced Friday.
Nieves Reyes, 48, was arraigned before Acting Supreme Court Justice Anthony S. Senft, Jr. on a six-count indictment, including second-degree murder, three counts of first-degree attempted murder, and criminal use of a firearm in the first degree. Reyes is being held without bail and faces up to 40 years to life in prison if convicted of the top charges.
“Attacks on Suffolk’s law enforcement officers will be met with the law’s most serious consequences,” Tierney said. “The defendant allegedly committed a heinous act of violence that claimed a life and then opened fire on the brave officers who were doing their duty to serve our community. This is a stark reminder of the dangers that our men and women in law enforcement face every single day.”
According to prosecutors, the violence began on July 23, when Reyes allegedly ambushed and killed 66-year-old Eugene Allen, a former coworker at Suffolk Transportation Services. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Reyes chasing Allen with a machete in a targeted attack on New York Avenue in Bay Shore. Allen’s body was discovered hours later in a wooded area, hidden beneath brush. He had sustained severe machete wounds to the head and multiple defensive injuries, authorities said.
“The victim in this case was maliciously, ruthlessly, and savagely cut down by this alleged defendant,” Tierney stated.
The following morning, as Suffolk County police attempted to serve a search warrant at Reyes’ residence, he allegedly opened fire with a shotgun, discharging five rounds through the door. One officer was struck in the face by buckshot, fracturing his cheekbone. Minutes later, Reyes allegedly fired another shot at an emergency services officer.
At approximately 5:45 a.m., during a second breach attempt, Reyes is accused of firing seven additional rounds before eventually surrendering after negotiations with hostage crisis officers.
“This individual wanted to kill multiple police officers. He should never see the light of day again,” said Suffolk PBA President Louis Civello, who was surrounded by dozens of fellow officers at the arraignment. “He should spend the rest of his life in prison.”
“This case is about more than just one horrific crime,” Tierney said. “It’s about the resilience of our police, the loss of a community member, and the importance of holding violent offenders fully accountable. We will vigorously pursue justice for Mr. Allen and for the officer who risked his life in the line of duty.”
Reyes’ attorney, Brett Bennett, could not immediately be reached for comment. He is scheduled to return to court on September 3.