LI IHOP Shooting: Bloods Gang Member Admits Attempted Murder

RIVERHEAD, NY — A Bloods gang member pleaded guilty to attempted murder and other charges after prosecutors said he opened fire inside an IHOP restaurant in Lake Ronkonkoma last year. Deontrae Green, 20, of Islandia, pleaded guilty Monday to attempted murder, assault, criminal use of a firearm, criminal possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment — all felonies, Suffolk County District Attorney Timothy Sini announced.

Green faces up to 15 years in prison and five years of post-release supervision when he's sentenced Feb. 21.

"This defendant is a dangerous gang member who poses a clear threat to the safety of our communities," Sini said in a statement. "He showed no regard for human life when he fired multiple rounds in a crowded family restaurant, attempting to murder his intended target and endangering the lives of several bystanders in the process."

Around 1:20 p.m. March 4 Green and an associate entered the IHOP at 339 Portion Rd. where 23 other patrons were dining, including a family with an infant in a high chair sitting directly across from Green. About five minutes later, a group of people left their booth and walked past Green as they headed out of the restaurant. Green whipped out a .40-caliber Glock handgun and shot five rounds at the group, striking a man in his 20s.

The victim was treated for a non-life threatening gunshot wound at Stony Brook University Hospital.

More than 50 police units responded. Green ran off and was caught shortly after on Patchogue Holbrook Road.

Police dogs found a handgun in a wooded lot near 321 Portion Rd. Video cameras also showed Green was near the lot shortly after fleeing the IHOP.