PERRYSBURG, NY — A small and typically quiet community was left reeling after a fatal shooting took place overnight on the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation in Perrysburg, New York, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The incident occurred near 10996 Whites Drive, and has since drawn a heavy police presence and sparked a multi-agency investigation.
According to initial reports from the New York State Police, officers responded to the scene following reports of gunfire in the early hours. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered two individuals deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. Their identities have not yet been publicly released pending notification of next of kin.
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office issued a shelter-in-place advisory for nearby residents, urging them to remain indoors and avoid the area while law enforcement secured the scene. That order was lifted later in the morning after officials determined there was no ongoing threat to public safety.
The Seneca Nation Marshals joined New York State Police in responding to the scene, with investigators working diligently to determine the motive behind the violence and identify any suspects. As of this time, authorities have not confirmed whether anyone has been arrested or detained in connection to the shooting.
Officials have remained tight-lipped about specific details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. However, they have reassured the public that they do not believe there is an active shooter threat at this time.
“This is a tragic situation, and our hearts go out to the families of those affected,” a state police spokesperson said in a brief statement. “We are working closely with the Seneca Nation and local authorities to piece together what happened and ensure justice is served.”
The Cattaraugus Indian Reservation, which is home to members of the Seneca Nation of Indians, is located in western New York near the town of Perrysburg and has historically been a peaceful region. News of the shooting has shocked both tribal and neighboring communities, many of whom are demanding answers and calling for swift justice.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that more information, including the identities of the victims and any developments in the investigation, will be made public as soon as it becomes available.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the New York State Police or the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office.
As the investigation unfolds, the Perrysburg and Seneca communities are left mourning the loss of two lives and seeking clarity in the wake of this heartbreaking violence.