Two men from Queens sentenced to 40 years in prison for murder during a party in Valley Stream.

In a significant ruling that underscores the ongoing struggle with gun violence in urban areas, two men from New York City have been sentenced to a minimum of 40 years in prison for their involvement in a violent shooting incident that claimed the life of 20-year-old Deandre Carter. This case, which has resonated deeply within the Valley Stream community, highlights concerns about gang-related activities and public safety in party settings.

Kyle Matthews and Isaiah Gonzalez, both aged 23 and residents of Far Rockaway, were convicted last month of murder, conspiracy, and firearm offenses in connection to the shooting that occurred on August 21, 2023. The crime took place outside a party venue located on Ocean Avenue in Valley Stream, where individuals associated with the Crips street gang were in attendance.

According to investigators, Matthews and Gonzalez approached a group of partygoers and indiscriminately fired at least eight shots using two different .380-caliber pistols. Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly characterized the shooting as a meticulously planned act intended to target a member of a rival gang. That night, Carter sustained life-threatening injuries when he was struck in the chest. The bullet severely damaged his rib cage before piercing vital organs, ultimately resulting in his death.

In addition to Carter, three other individuals were injured in the shooting, one of whom was only 12 years old. Fortunately, these victims were treated for non-life-threatening injuries, but the incident exacerbated fears surrounding safety in public gatherings.

The investigation culminated in the arrests of Matthews and Gonzalez, with Matthews taken into custody on September 6, 2023, in Far Rockaway and Gonzalez apprehended two days later in Manhattan. After nearly four weeks of testimony and just one day of deliberation, a Nassau County jury found both men guilty in April.

On Monday, Judge Helene Gugerty imposed a sentence of up to 40 years to life in prison for each defendant, stressing the violent impact of their actions on the local community. Donnelly reiterated the profound loss suffered by Carter’s family, recalling that the victim aspired to pursue a career in criminal justice and dreamed of becoming a police officer—dreams that were unforgivably cut short by the violence of that night.

The case serves as a grim reminder of the challenges faced by communities grappling with gun violence and the repercussions of gang-related activities. The lengthy sentences handed down to Matthews and Gonzalez aim not only to provide justice for Carter’s family but also to send a clear message about the consequences of such violent acts.