Long Island man convicted in deadly shooting of his longtime friend.

A Long Island man has been found guilty of murder in connection with the fatal shooting of his longtime friend in November 2023. The conviction comes as a result of proceedings that unfolded at the Suffolk County court, where jurors deliberated the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident involving 45-year-old James Brown and his friend, Umar Elquhir, also 45.

The tragic confrontation occurred on the Poospatuck Reservation in Mastic on November 7, 2023. According to prosecutors, the events leading to the shooting began with a physical altercation between the two men earlier that evening. Surveillance video footage captured Elquhir leaving Brown’s residence following their dispute. Approximately two hours later, Elquhir returned to the area, parking his car outside Brown’s home.

Brown subsequently emerged from his residence and approached Elquhir’s vehicle. Witnesses report that he shouted aggressive threats before firing approximately nine rounds into the car, where Elquhir was seated. After the shooting, Brown allegedly returned to his house, while Elquhir exited his vehicle and ultimately collapsed on the ground due to his injuries.

Law enforcement arrived promptly on the scene and discovered Elquhir suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Long Island Community Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Throughout the trial, Brown asserted that he acted in self-defense, claiming he felt his life was in danger. However, the jury ultimately found his defense unconvincing, leading to his conviction for one count of second-degree murder and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.

This is not Brown’s first encounter with the law; he has a prior conviction for assault, having served five years in prison for a related incident in 2021. Sentencing for Brown is scheduled for June 16, where he faces a potential life sentence. Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney stated that his office will seek a sentencing decision that guarantees Brown will not pose a threat to residents in the community again.

The case has highlighted ongoing concerns regarding gun violence and the prevalence of criminal behavior among repeat offenders. As this situation continues to develop, it serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of violent actions and the critical importance of legal accountability.

As communities grapple with the implications of such incidents, local law enforcement and prosecutors remain vigilant in their efforts to enhance public safety and uphold justice in Suffolk County.

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