UPDATED, 4:50 p.m., February 24: Gary Melius, a prominent Long-Island developer known for his political connections, has been gunned down at his posh Oheka Castle in Huntington, N.Y., sources told the New York Post. He is said to be in stable condition following surgery Monday evening.
As Melius pulled his car into the property – an old estate turned high-end hotel and catering hall where he also lives, in Suffolk County on Long Island — he was shot in the face by a masked gunman, according to the newspaper. He was then admitted to North Shore Hospital, sources told the newspaper, and a specialist eye surgeon was called in.
Police said at a news conference this afternoon that Melius was alert on the way in to surgery. They added that the shooting does not appear to be accidental, though there are no suspects at this time.
Melius is known to have sway with top politicians across party lines, according to the Post. Oheka Castle has played host to many high-profile events, including the wedding of former Congressman Anthony Weiner and Huma Abedin, which was officiated by former President Bill Clinton. [NYP] – Hiten Samtani