In a devastating turn of events, 15-year-old Michael Raimondi, a 10th grader at Somers High School, lost his life following a violent shooting incident on Monday night in Somers, New York. His mother, Christina Raimondi, and younger brother, Matthew, were also severely injured in the attack that has shaken the community to its core. Authorities confirmed that Fernando Jimenez, a 40-year-old acquaintance of the family, allegedly opened fire at their Baldwin Place residence, leading to a frantic search that ended in Jimenez’s arrest the following day.
The tragic event unfolded late in the evening around 11:35 p.m. on Monday, with police receiving emergency calls from the Crossroads family housing complex reporting gunshots. Responding officers arrived to find Michael fatally wounded and his family members critically injured. Jimenez fled the scene, sparking a manhunt that stretched from Somers to Peekskill Hollow Road in Putnam Valley. The New York State Police (NYSP) eventually captured him around 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, bringing an end to a tense and sorrowful morning for Somers and surrounding communities.
A Closer Look at the Incident
The scene at the Crossroads complex on Monday night was one of confusion and fear as neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots. According to witnesses, Jimenez was a familiar but concerning presence in the neighborhood. A neighbor who requested anonymity stated she had seen him the day before the shooting, noting his unusual behavior of standing outside the Raimondi residence and staring intently at Christina as she sat in her car. Although residents were accustomed to the comings and goings at the complex, Jimenez’s behavior reportedly made some neighbors uneasy.
During a press briefing on Tuesday morning, Somers Town Supervisor Rob Scorrano described the event as a “domestic violence incident,” a label that underscored the personal nature of the attack. Supervisor Scorrano extended his condolences to the family and emphasized the town’s solidarity with the victims. “Somers is a tight-knit community, and I know we will all rally to support each other in the wake of this terrible incident,” he said, describing the widespread grief that has enveloped the town.
The Manhunt and Law Enforcement Response
Following the shooting, Jimenez fled the scene, prompting an extensive search that spanned multiple jurisdictions. Authorities advised residents in Somers, Peekskill Hollow, and surrounding areas to shelter in place, warning that the suspect was believed to be armed and dangerous. Putnam Valley Central School District officials closed all district schools for the day, while the Lakeland and Mahopac Central School Districts implemented lockout procedures to ensure student safety.
By dawn, a strong law enforcement presence was visible along Peekskill Hollow Road and adjacent areas as police expanded their search. Drones and K-9 units assisted the search, and officers canvassed the neighborhoods in hopes of locating Jimenez. Residents were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and local businesses postponed opening until further notice. Finally, around 11:00 a.m., NYSP located and apprehended Jimenez, bringing a sense of relief to a community that had been on edge for hours.
Community Reaction and Support Efforts
As news of the tragedy spread, the Somers community was deeply impacted. Michael Raimondi, known for his kindness, academic dedication, and friendly spirit, had left a lasting impression on friends, teachers, and peers at Somers High School. Many recalled his warm smile and his willingness to help others, traits that made him a beloved member of the school community. Grief counselors were made available on campus to support students and staff coping with the sudden loss, and school officials organized a memorial gathering to honor Michael’s memory.
Residents and friends of the Raimondi family began showing their support immediately. Local businesses and neighbors coordinated meal trains and gathered resources to help the family through their recovery. Many community members have expressed disbelief and sorrow over the incident, expressing the desire to support the family in any way they can. Some spoke about the need for increased attention to domestic violence awareness, while others noted the importance of mental health resources for community members in crisis.
The GoFundMe Campaign: Helping a Family in Need
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page was created on behalf of Christina and her surviving son, Matthew, to help with medical expenses, funeral costs, and future support needs. The campaign, organized by family friends, describes the impact Michael had on those around him and highlights the tremendous financial and emotional burden facing Christina, who remains in critical condition. It reads:
“Dear friends, family, and compassionate strangers, we’re reaching out during a moment of profound heartbreak on behalf of Christina and her two beloved sons, Matthew and Michael. Recently, this family endured a devastating domestic violence incident. Michael, a cherished 15-year-old son and brother, tragically lost his life, and now Christina and Matthew are both in critical condition.”
“As Christina fights for her life, she faces the unimaginable reality of having to bury her child. Their road to recovery will be long, arduous, and filled with immense 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. Together, they’ve shown remarkable strength and resilience, but they cannot face this alone.”
The fundraiser has garnered widespread support, with donations pouring in from community members, alumni of Somers High School, and friends across the state. The goal is to provide the family with enough resources to cover the costs associated with Michael’s funeral and to support Christina and Matthew as they face an uncertain road to recovery.
Reflections on Domestic Violence: A Community Call to Action
As details of the shooting emerged, domestic violence advocates emphasized the need for greater resources and support systems for families in crisis. Many noted that while awareness has increased, gaps remain in identifying warning signs and providing interventions for families who may be at risk.
Local organizations have partnered with social workers and advocacy groups to hold informational sessions on identifying domestic violence and connecting with available resources. “This tragedy has reminded us of the importance of supporting victims and being aware of the signs of potential violence,” stated Angela Carter, a director at the Westchester Family Services Center. “It’s up to all of us to ensure that community members in distress know they’re not alone and have a support system to lean on.”
Looking Forward: Grieving and Rebuilding
For the Raimondi family, the path forward will be challenging as they navigate the trauma, loss, and recovery process. Christina, described by friends as a devoted mother, faces a long physical and emotional journey to healing. Matthew, the younger of the Raimondi sons, will face the aftermath of this tragedy with the love and support of family, friends, and a united community.
Somers Town Supervisor Rob Scorrano shared his hopes for healing in the community, emphasizing that unity will help bring strength to the family. “Our community is heartbroken, but we are resilient. We are here for the Raimondis, and together, we will find a way to move forward.”
As the community mourns the loss of Michael Raimondi, his legacy lives on in the memories of his kindness, spirit, and commitment to those around him. Somers remains dedicated to supporting the Raimondi family and ensuring they are not alone in this time of grief.
A GoFundMe Account
