Sister of suspect who was fatally shot after firing at police in Lewis County speaks out

DIANA- The sister of Victor Craighead, the 47-year-old suspect who was fatally shot after firing at responding police last Friday, is speaking out with claims that she does not believe her brother would murder or harm anyone.

This development comes to light as investigators are trying to piece together a crime on the Alpine Road, where two separate vehicles were discovered torched, with both containing human remains.

Troopers said they found both vehicles while responding to a trespass compliant.

While establishing a perimeter, State Police said that Victor emerged from his 7654 address, armed with a long-gun, before firing at police. Troopers returned fire and struck Victor.

He was pronounced deceased on-scene and the Trooper who struck Victor has been placed on critical incident leave.

Meanwhile, René Craighead, Victor’s sister, spoke with reporters from WWNY-TV, and she does not believe her brother would ever do something like this.

Though she would like to see more proof that her brother is ultimately the one who committed these acts, she did reportedly admit that his mindset towards the believed victims was souring, and it could have been instigated by neighbors.

“My brother’s mind was slowly going because these people were constantly filling his head, manipulating him,” René declared to reporters.

As of Monday, the New York State Police did not have any further explanation or details to share, as the investigation remains on going and it could take several weeks for the next official developments to surface.

Autopsies were arranged for the victims on Monday.

North Country News image.