LIVINGSTON—The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office investigated a shooting, according to a press release from Sheriff David P. Bartlett.
Sheriff’s deputies were assigned a 911 call for a subject who was shot on County Route 8, January 22 at 12:40 a.m.
Upon arrival, patrols located an individual who had what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries from a gunshot wound. Northern Dutchess Paramedics took the victim to Albany Medical Center, where he was treated and later released.
Investigators on the scene learned that an altercation had occurred between two men who knew each other which led to the shooting of the victim. The Sheriff’s Office did not release details about exactly where the victim was shot or what type of gun was used.
Richard Coons, 28, of Livingston was taken into custody and later charged with first degree assault-use of a weapon, a class B felony; second degree criminal possession of a weapon, a class C felony, and first degree reckless endangerment, a class D felony.
Mr. Coons was arraigned in Claverack Court before Justice Michael Brandon and was sent to the Columbia County Jail in lieu of $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.
Sheriff Bartlett wants the public to know this appears to be an isolated incident. There is no need for public alarm or concern at this time. The weapon used in the crime was secured and collected by police, according to the release. The Sheriff’s Office is working with members of the State Police Forensic Investigative Unit (FIU) and the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office.
“I am glad our patrol was in the area when this occurred. There is no doubt in my mind that their quick response helped lead to rapid first aid to the victim and a quick apprehension of the defendant. I am also grateful for the response of the State Police in assisting our deputies with taking this dangerous person into custody safely,” the sheriff said.