updated January 6th, 2025 with suspect + police scanner audio
HALFMOON, N.Y. – A man is recovering in the hospital following a shooting Saturday morning outside Morris Pipe and Supply Co. off state Route 146, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to reports of a shooting near the intersection of Route 146 and Farm to Market Road at approximately 11:04 a.m., Undersheriff Jeff Brown confirmed during a Saturday afternoon press conference at the Hillcrest Firehouse.
The Incident
Authorities are still investigating the circumstances that led to the altercation between two men and a woman in the parking lot of Morris Pipe and Supply, which is typically closed on weekends. The reason for their presence at the location, or why the interaction escalated into gunfire, remains under review.
The Suspect and Charges
Justin P. Wagner, 25, of Schenectady, has been charged with multiple felonies, including:
- Second-degree attempted murder
- First-degree criminal use of a firearm
- Second-degree criminal possession of a weapon
- First-degree reckless endangerment
- Third-degree criminal possession of an assault weapon
- Third-degree criminal possession of a weapon
The Pursuit and Arrest
Following the shooting, Wagner fled the scene in a van. Eyewitnesses provided police with a description, enabling law enforcement to track him down more than five miles west along Route 146 at the intersection with Moe Road in Clifton Park. Wagner was taken into custody without incident.
The Victim
The man who was shot was transported to Albany Medical Center, where he was treated for injuries that are “not considered to be life-threatening,” according to the sheriff’s office. Police confirmed that Wagner and the victim were acquainted prior to the incident.
Clifton Park Community Impact
Residents in Clifton Park expressed concern following the incident, as the pursuit ended near one of the area’s busier intersections. However, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that this was an isolated event and that there is no ongoing threat to the Clifton Park or Halfmoon communities. Increased patrols will continue throughout the weekend as a precaution.
Legal Proceedings
Wagner was arraigned before Judge Joseph V. Fodera in Halfmoon Town Court and remanded to Saratoga County Jail. He will remain in custody as he awaits further court proceedings.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing as police seek to establish the full timeline and motives behind the incident. Residents and businesses in Clifton Park and Halfmoon are encouraged to report any additional information that may assist authorities.
The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation with assistance from the New York State Police. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office directly.
