Matthew Degroat Newburgh, NY Death and Obituary: 11-Year-Old Matthew Degroat Shot and Killed in Newburgh, NY

 Matthew Degroat Newburgh, NY Death and Obituary – On October 9, 2025, the City of Newburgh, New York, was shaken by a heartbreaking tragedy that claimed the life of 11-year-old Matthew Degroat. The fatal shooting occurred inside a residence located at 184 North Miller Street, leaving the community in grief and sparking widespread calls for peace and action against youth violence.

Details of the Incident

According to the City of Newburgh Police Department, officers responded to a report of a shooting around 8:17 a.m. on Thursday, October 9. Upon arrival, they discovered young Matthew Degroat suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities swiftly launched an investigation into the incident. By Friday, October 10, law enforcement officials, working alongside a multi-agency task force, arrested a 13-year-old boy in connection with the shooting. The suspect has since been charged with second-degree murder. Police also recovered a firearm from the scene shortly after the incident, which is believed to have been used in the shooting.

Preliminary reports, including those cited by the New York Post, suggest that the motive behind the attack may have been an act of revenge related to an earlier altercation involving Matthew’s older brother. However, officials have emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that the 13-year-old suspect will be prosecuted as a juvenile offender in Orange County Court.

Community and Family Response

The shooting sent shockwaves throughout the Newburgh community. Following the incident, local schools were placed on lockout as a safety precaution. City leaders, community organizations, and residents have expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the senseless loss of life.

The SNUG anti-gun violence program, which works to reduce shootings through community outreach and conflict mediation, has been actively supporting Matthew’s family and working to help the community heal. Local leaders and activists have called for stronger gun safety measures and early intervention programs for at-risk youth.

Matthew’s family, in a statement shared with News 12, expressed their gratitude to law enforcement officers and community members for their support during this devastating time. Matthew’s uncle also spoke in an exclusive video, urging the public to come together to promote peace and unity in Matthew’s memory.

In honor of the young boy’s life, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral and memorial expenses. The page has drawn an outpouring of support from across Newburgh and beyond, with many donors sharing heartfelt condolences and memories.

A Community in Mourning

The tragic death of Matthew Degroat underscores the urgent need for continued efforts to address youth violence and promote community safety in Newburgh and across the nation. As the investigation continues and the community grieves, many hope that Matthew’s story will serve as a catalyst for change—reminding everyone of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of fostering compassion, understanding, and peace among young people.

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