The young victim, identified as 11-year-old Jeffrey Langhorn, was reportedly shot in the face around 1:30 p.m. in his home on Provost Avenue. Police say three bullets were fired into the home from outside.
Authorities say it appears Langhorn was in the wrong place at the wrong time when bullets started flying.
Suffolk County police tell Eyewitness News they believe the boy's father was the intended target. Reportedly, the father was seen arguing with three men on the lawn of the family's home prior to the shooting.
Before detectives could begin to investigate the scene, they had to clear out a number of pit bulls that were inside and surrounding the house. At least 16 dogs were led out of the location on leashes and in cages.
Once the house was cleared, authorities were able to begin their investigation and try to figure out what happened.
"He was shot from the outside, the bullet went through the wall and struck the child that was in the house," said Det. Sgt. David Mulloy, with the Suffolk County Police. "He was just at the kitchen table."
The victim's family raced the child to Brookhaven hospital, where he was then transferred to Stonybrook Hospital. He is listed in critical condition with a possible spinal cord injuries.
There have been no arrests yet in this case.
