Suspect Identified In April 9th Shooting in the Village of Homer

An update has been issued by the Village of Homer Police Department regarding the shooting that occurred in the afternoon of April 9th on Hudson Street in the Village of Homer.

Through the investigation, the suspect of the shooting was determined to be 54 year old Joseph Spruill of Cortland, who fled to the New York City area after the shooting. It is also believed that this shooting was not a random act, as the investigation revealed that Spruill and the victim knew each other.

Charges against the suspect include:

• Attempt Murder in the second degree – class B felony
• Assault in the first degree – class B Felony
• Reckless Endangerment in the first degree – class D felony
• Criminal use of a Firearm in the first degree – class B felony
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the second degree – class C felony
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree – class D felony

An arrest warrant for Spruill was issued by Cortland County Judge Alexander on April 14th. Officers with the Homer Police Department are working with the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office, the New York City Police (Troop C, Troop NYC), the New York State Intelligence Center, the Southern Tier Crime Analysis Center and the New York City Police Department.

This is still an active investigation and anyone with information, or information about the suspect’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Village of Homer Police Department at 607-749-2022.