Machetes Recovered After Violent Melee At Westchester Shopping Center

PORT CHESTER, NY — A scary scene at a busy waterfront shopping area was quickly brought to heel by police.

The Port Chester Police Department responded Tuesday evening to a fight involving approximately eight to ten participants at the MTA-owned commuter parking level of the Waterfront Place parking garage.

Subscribe

Police said they recovered several weapons, including a machete. The suspects and recovered evidence were turned over to the MTA Police Department as they proceeded with their investigation.

"While this incident occurred on MTA property and ultimately falls under MTA Police jurisdiction, it was the Port Chester Police Department that responded immediately to a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation, secured the scene, recovered the weapons, and helped bring the incident under control," Port Chester Village Manager Stuart Rabin said. "Our officers once again demonstrated that when something happens in Port Chester, regardless of jurisdictional lines, they are prepared to step in, take command, and protect the public."

Two of the suspects were taken to Westchester County Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. As of this morning, six suspects have so far been arrested by the MTA Police Department.

"There has been no confirmation that this incident was gang related," the Port Chester officials said in a statement. "Preliminary information suggests the altercation may have been connected to an incident from earlier Tuesday, which remains under investigation. The Village thanks the Port Chester Police Department for their response, as well as the Rye and Rye Brook Police Departments for their assistance at the scene."

Police Chief Christopher Rosabella commended his officers' actions in response to the unusual crisis.

"This investigation remains with the MTA Police Department. Our officers responded to a highly tense and rapidly developing situation with professionalism, discipline, and the sound judgment that their training demands," Rosabella said. "They quickly worked to secure the scene, recover the weapons involved, provide for the safety of those present, and coordinated effectively with our neighboring departments and MTA Police. Their response reflects the high level of training and preparedness we expect from the men and women of the Port Chester Police Department."

While expressing concern over the circumstances, Mayor Luis Marino shared pride in the way the department handled the situation.

"Thank you to the Port Chester Police Department for your continued service to the residents of our Village," Marino said. "Your dedication to this community is demonstrated time and again, particularly when you are called upon during moments of uncertainty and heightened risk. I am extremely proud that Port Chester is served by men and women who are trained, prepared, and capable of stepping forward and leading when our community needs them most."