Editor's Note: This story has been edited to clarify where the party occurred.
LONG POND, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Investigators held a press conference for three suspects identified after a rental property shootout left a man dead in the Poconos.
The following three men have been charged with homicide and attempted homicide in the death of 22-year-old Lionardo Hernandez Zarata;
- Oscar Quilarque Sosa, 31, of New York
- Oswaldo Odin Soloranzo Sosa, 37, of New York
- Josthin Noel Landaeta Perez, 24, of New York
According to the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department, on January 12, officers were called for multiple people suffering from gunshot wounds at a house on Clover Road in Long Pond.
Once on the scene, detectives say a man was found dead inside the house, later identified as Hernandez Zarata of Venezuela. Police said Hernandez Zarata died from eight gunshots. One to the hand that appeared to be a defensive wound, and several others to the back of the head, the left ear, the chest, and his back.
Officers stated the home was rented out for a party celebrating Hernandez Zarata’s birthday. At some point during the evening, an argument took place between the victim and three suspects, that led to the shooting.
Drug sting uncovers cocaine mailed to NEPA"We're talking about a scene that contained upwards of 30 or more people at it so there were a lot of names there's a lot of evidence left behind. There was even a suitcase if I remember correctly in the driveway. That was how hasty the exit was," stated District Attorney Mike Mancuso.
After interviewing several witnesses from the party, detectives reported that Oscar Quilarque Sosa, his brother Oswaldo Soloranzo Sosa, Josthin Landaeta Perez, and 10 others went to the party to comfort Hernandez Zarata about money he allegedly owed Jesus Oliveros Sosa money.
Police say Oscar and Oswaldo's brother Jesus, who is being charged separately, was hired as a DJ for the party. Jesus claimed he was not paid by Hernandez-Zarate, so his brothers confronted him.
Mike Mancuso District Attorney
Mike Mancuso District Attorney
Mike Mancuso District Attorney
The suspects were kicked out of the party by Hernandez Zarata but later returned leading to an argument that escalated into a gunfight where police say Oscar Sosa was the primary shooter.
The FBI executed a search warrant on Oscar Sosa's vehicle, they located three firearms matching the three calibers at the crime scene.
DA Mike Mancuso: Oscar Sosa, Josthin Perez, Oswaldo Sosa
Oscar Sosa and Landaeta Perez were arrested in New York and police are awaiting extradition information. Oswaldo Soloranzo Sosa has not been arrested on the charges filed against him.
Jesus Oliveros Sosa is facing charges of hindering the apprehension and is also in custody in NY.
It's unclear when anyone will be brought back to monroe county to be tried.
The DA says short term rental policies in the poconos vary by township, but he urges a better vetting process to screen people who rent these properties.
Belwo you can watch the full press conference regarding the invesgation.