Crime Watch

Firefighter shot down, now recovering at home

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Bellmore firefighter Justin Angell was released from Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow on Thursday morning. A little more than 24 hours before his release, Angell had been shot by a car crash victim whom he was attempting to help on Bellmore Avenue in Bellmore.

Angell, 20, arrived on the scene with his older brother Dean, both EMTs, to aid in what they believed was a regular car accident. When Angell stepped out of the ambulance, he was shot at by the suspect, later identified as Jason Beller, 31, of Commack. Authorities said Angell took a bullet to the back from a laser-sight-equipped SKS 7 assault-style rifle.

Nassau County Police arrived on the scene shortly after and secured the area. An officer shot and killed Beller, who was found in possession of six guns. Possible motives behind his attack are still under investigation.

Angell underwent emergency surgery and is expected to recover.

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