A murder investigation is underway after a man's body was discovered in a makeshift homeless encampment in Central Islip.
The gruesome scene was found near the intersection of Suffolk Avenue and Carleton Avenue around 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Police responded to the area after officers were called to investigate reports of a body found in the encampment.
Upon arrival, they confirmed the discovery of the body and noted evidence suggesting that the victim had been murdered.
Detective Lt. Kevin Beyrer, from the Suffolk County Police Department, provided details of the investigation.
“Patrol officers responded. They did discover a body. There was evidence inside the enclosure, there was blood inside the enclosure, evidence the body, that it was a murder," he said.
The victim, described as an adult male, has yet to be identified. Investigators have also been working to identify any individuals who may have been living in the small, cramped homeless camp, which was reportedly only big enough for one or two people.
“It’s very small,” said Lt. Beyrer. “It’s only about waist high, a couple of feet long, just a small little tent.”
As police continue to comb the area for clues, businesses across the street from the scene remained open, though Suffolk Avenue was closed off for the duration of the investigation.
Local residents expressed concern over the proximity of the crime to their homes.
“It’s concerning,” said Central Islip resident Cesar Morales. “I’ve seen this a couple of times before. You never know when it happens. It’s a dangerous place.”
As of now, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been identified.