In a shocking case that’s stunned a Long Island community, Kathleen Schumann, the woman caught on video allegedly firing a flare gun directly at her neighbor’s face, made her first court appearance this week.
The disturbing incident unfolded earlier this month in Long Island, New York, after what police described as a “longstanding dispute” between Schumann and her next-door neighbor escalated violently.
Cell phone video, which quickly spread online, shows Schumann arguing with the victim before suddenly raising the flare gun and firing at close range. The bright flash lit up the quiet residential street as horrified witnesses screamed for help.
The victim, a man in his 30s, suffered serious facial burns and injuries but is expected to survive, according to police.
Schumann, 54, was arrested at her home shortly after the shooting. Officers say she appeared “unremorseful” and claimed she fired the flare gun “in self-defense.” Investigators, however, determined there was no immediate threat to justify her actions.
During her court appearance, prosecutors described the act as “reckless and deliberate,” urging the judge to keep Schumann in custody due to the severity of the charges. She now faces multiple counts, including assault with a weapon and reckless endangerment.
Her attorney entered a plea of not guilty, and the judge ordered a mental health evaluation before the next hearing.
Outside the courthouse, neighbors expressed both shock and relief that the situation hadn’t turned deadly.
“We’ve heard arguments before, but no one ever thought it would come to this,” one resident told reporters.
As the investigation continues, authorities are reviewing whether the flare gun — typically used for emergencies — could legally be considered a deadly weapon under New York law.
Schumann remains under court supervision as the case unfolds, with her next court date scheduled later this month.