Yorktown dog killed in shooting

Updated on Aug. 7, 2026 at 9:22 a.m.

A dog belonging to a familiar face in Yorktown was shot and killed Wednesday night, prompting an outpouring of concern and heartbreak from residents who knew the man and his longtime companion.

Yorktown Police said officers responded to Route 118 at approximately 7:30 p.m. Aug. 5 following a report of a dog attacking another dog. Police said officers arrived after the incident had already transpired and began an investigation.

According to police, the incident occurred on the sidewalk along Route 118 near the former Turco’s. Matt Steele, who is experiencing homelessness, was with his 12-year-old shepherd-husky mix, Luke.

In the moments leading up to Luke’s death, the dog had gotten loose while his owner was trying to retrieve him after losing a sandal. Luke, who was also called “Snoopy,” was confronting another dog but had not attacked when the other owner pulled out a gun and shot him.

The loss has left Steele devastated, with Luke remembered as a cherished companion and a familiar presence in the Yorktown community. Steele and Luke are well known to many residents, who describe them as a beloved pair.

Following an investigation, police alleged that James Molloy, 61, of Yorktown, used a firearm in a public area, discharging the weapon and killing Luke.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves across town, with residents describing Matt as a kind face in the community and remembering Luke on social media as a gentle dog who “wouldn’t hurt a fly.” Small crowds have gathered in the area since the incident, with residents creating a memorial with flowers to show support and honor Luke’s memory.

“I was not present, and it would be inappropriate to speculate about the precise circumstances surrounding the incident. I did know Luke, having taken him on walks over the years, and I found him to be a curious and friendly dog,” Supervisor Ed Lachterman said in a statement from the town’s public relations firm. “My heart goes out to his owner, who is well known in our community, and to everyone who has been impacted by this tragic event.”

Molloy, a retired NYPD police officer, legally possessed the firearm, police told Yorktown News. Police said the discharge of the weapon resulted in the first-degree reckless endangerment charge.

Molloy was the person who called police to report the incident, according to police. He was later arrested and taken to Yorktown Police Headquarters for processing. He faces felony charges of first-degree reckless endangerment, a Class D felony, and aggravated cruelty to animals, a Class E felony.

He was arraigned in Yorktown Justice Court on Thursday, and a temporary order of protection was issued protecting the victim.

The SPCA has been notified, according to Police Chief Justin Foley, and additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

Foley told Yorktown News Thursday that there is no active threat to the community.

Molloy was released on his own recognizance and is due back in court at 6 p.m. on Aug. 11.

As residents have taken to social media to rally behind Matt, many have vowed to show their support by attending the court appearance next week.

Emile Menasché contributed to the reporting of this story.