ASTORIA, N.Y. — Isaiah Keller, a 26-year-old FDNY emergency medical technician, has been charged with attempted murder and other crimes for allegedly shooting a 36-year-old man in the early hours of August 31, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Wednesday.
According to the criminal complaint, Keller, who did not know the victim, approached Eric Connor on a residential street in Astoria shortly before 4 a.m., drew a gun, and fired two shots. Connor was struck in the left thigh and right foot. Keller fled the scene, and video surveillance later tied him to the incident, prosecutors said.
“This defendant, who is an FDNY EMT, is entrusted with saving the lives of his fellow New Yorkers,” DA Katz said. “As alleged, Isaiah Keller broke that promise and shot a man in the streets of Astoria, causing serious injuries.”
Connor was transported to a local hospital where he underwent surgery to remove a bullet lodged in his femur. He continues to receive treatment for his injuries.
Keller, a Jamaica resident, was arraigned on charges including attempted murder in the second degree, first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and reckless endangerment. If convicted of the top charge, he faces up to 25 years in prison.