In a tragic incident that has left the community of Somers, New York, reeling, Michael Raimondi, a 15-year-old sophomore at Somers High School, was fatally shot Monday night. His younger brother and mother were also wounded in the attack, which took place at their Baldwin Place residence. Police arrested Fernando Jimenez, a 40-year-old man familiar to the family, as the primary suspect.
The shootings took place around 11:35 p.m. at the Crossroads housing complex in Baldwin Place. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at the complex, which left one dead and two seriously injured. Jimenez, reportedly known to the family, allegedly opened fire, killing Michael Raimondi and injuring his brother and mother. Following the shooting, Jimenez fled the scene, triggering a manhunt by New York State Police. Police apprehended Jimenez on Tuesday morning at approximately 11 a.m., bringing the tense search to a close.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday morning, Somers Town Supervisor Rob Scorrano confirmed that the shooting appeared to be a “domestic violence event.” He expressed condolences to the Raimondi family and highlighted the impact the incident has had on the small, close-knit community. “Our heart and prayers go out to the family and to the victims,” Scorrano said. “Somers is a tightly knit community. I am confident that we will all rally behind this awful occurrence.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are gathering details to understand what led to the violent episode. Neighbors reported seeing Jimenez in the area just a day before the shooting, standing outside the residence and smoking. One neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, said Jimenez seemed focused on the mother, Christina, as she sat in her car. The nature of his connection to the family remains under investigation, but officials have stated that he was not a stranger to the victims.
The shooting set off immediate safety measures across the region, especially as Jimenez was believed to be armed during his escape. Peekskill Hollow Road, a central route in Putnam Valley, saw a substantial police presence throughout the morning. Local authorities advised residents to stay indoors, and several area school districts enacted emergency protocols. The Putnam Valley Central School District made the decision to close its schools entirely, notifying families via a morning website update: “After speaking with law enforcement, the decision has been made to close all Putnam Valley Schools today.” Lakeland Central and Mahopac Central School Districts, while not closing their campuses, went into lockdown, restricting entry and exit until the situation was deemed under control later in the day.
In the aftermath, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up for Christina Raimondi and her two sons. The fundraiser, launched by close family friends, calls on the broader community to assist the Raimondi family as they face the painful loss of Michael and the daunting road to recovery for Christina and her surviving son, Matthew. The campaign description emphasizes the family’s challenges: “Christina is a loving, devoted mother who has always put her family above all else. Matthew, her surviving son, is a bright, kind-hearted young soul who brings warmth to everyone around him.” It underscores the need for financial support to help cover medical care, therapy, and funeral arrangements. The community has begun to rally in support, with donations pouring in to help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with this tragedy.
Friends and classmates describe Michael Raimondi as a cherished part of the Somers High School community. A bright, caring individual, Michael’s presence will be deeply missed by those who knew him. His friends and peers have been shaken by the loss, with many taking to social media to express their grief and honor his memory. Funeral arrangements for Michael are forthcoming, and family friends are assisting the Raimondi family as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
This horrific event has cast a shadow over the Somers community, drawing attention to the critical issue of domestic violence. As authorities work to bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the shooting, Somers residents are left to mourn the life lost and to support the Raimondi family in their journey of recovery. Supervisor Scorrano emphasized the resilience of Somers: “This community will rally together. It is what we do, and we are here for one another.”
As the Raimondi family mourns the loss of a young son and begins a long recovery process, support from the community and beyond will play a pivotal role in helping them rebuild. Contributions to the GoFundMe campaign will assist with the immediate needs of Christina and Matthew, and those who wish to support the family are encouraged to share the campaign with others.
