WEBSTER — A growing wave of national shooting sprees has struck western New York with the early morning killing of two West Webster volunteer firefighters.
The victims in the shooting are Mike Chiapperini, also a lieutenant and public information officer with the Webster police department, and Tomasz Kaczowka. Both killed while responding to the early morning fire that has destroyed at least 5 homes.
William H. Spengler, Jr., 62, allegedly started a fire at his home in Webster and then attacked first responders as they arrived on scene. After a brief foot chase with responders Spengler apparently took his own life.
In addition, to the two firefighters killed, three first responders have been hospitalized from the incident. Joseph Hofsetter and Theodore Scardino were seriously injured and are at Strong Memorial Hospital with gunshot wounds, a hospital spokeswoman said. Greece Police officer, John Ritter, who arrived on the scene and got out to help, was injured by shrapnel.
Spengler had previously served 17 years in State prison for killing his grandmother. His mother had recently passed away as well. His sister is reportedly missing, and sources say they fear she may be a victim of the fire.