NEW DEVELOPMENTS: State Police arrest female suspect in connection with shooting death of Oneida County resident

TRENTON- Authorities say they have made an arrest concerning the shooting death of a local resident last month in Oneida County.

As previously reported, State Police began investigating the death of Michael A. Prokopienko, 31, of Holland Patent, NY on the evening of September 17 in the town of Trenton.

According to investigators, the suspect in question has been formally identified as Toni L. Walts, 38, of Trenton, NY.

As of this report, authorities have determined that Walts was handling a loaded double-barrel shotgun at a residence on Jones Road when she allegedly recklessly pointed the firearm in the direction of Prokopienko.

The firearm suddenly discharged, striking Prokopienko and causing his death.

As a result of the investigation, Walts was arrested and charged with felony manslaughter in the second degree.

Walts was processed and arraigned in Oneida County CAP Court. She was remanded to the Oneida County Jail in lieu of $100,000 cash bail, $250,000 bond, or $1.5 million partially secured bond.

The arrest follows an extensive investigation by the New York State Police, which included numerous interviews and consultation with the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office.

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