In a shocking turn of events, Keyonna Waddell of Long Island, New York has been found guilty of assault and criminal possession of a weapon after throwing a stick of dynamite into her then-boyfriend's bedroom in 2024. The 35-year-old now faces the possibility of a 25-year prison sentence for her actions. According to the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, a jury reached the verdict on April 24th, delivering justice for the victim who lost his hand in the explosion.
District Attorney Tierney expressed the seriousness of domestic violence and its potential to escalate to deadly levels in a written statement. He also praised the hard work of prosecutors and the Suffolk County Police Department for holding Waddell accountable for her horrific act. The incident occurred on March 22, 2024, after an argument between Waddell and her boyfriend in their shared apartment.
In the heat of the moment, the boyfriend asked her to leave, and he left as well, assuming she would do the same. However, upon returning home and going to bed, he was woken up by a hissing sound and a flame on the floor. Alarmed, he quickly realized that it could be a stick of dynamite that Waddell had thrown into the room.
He attempted to extinguish the flame, but when his efforts were unsuccessful, he made the split-second decision to pick it up and throw it outside. Unfortunately, as he made his way outside, the dynamite exploded in his hand, causing him excruciating pain and leaving him without a hand. He then saw Waddell leaving the scene and fled to the end of the driveway to seek help.
Police officers arrived and rushed him to Nassau University Medical Center, where the remaining part of his hand and a portion of his arm had to be amputated. The following day, Waddell was arrested after police investigated the incident and discovered that she had made multiple threats to use dynamite on her boyfriend before this tragic event. She is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on May 27, where she will face the consequences of her actions.
This disturbing case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and preventing domestic violence. It also highlights the bravery and resilience of survivors who must navigate the aftermath of such traumatic experiences. Let us continue to uplift and support those who have been affected by domestic violence and strive towards a future where it no longer exists.