Conklin Murder Suspect Had Argued Over Video Game Console

Authorities say the man accused of killing his uncle in Conklin had previously fought with family members when they tried to take his television and video game console.

21-year-old Michael Bartosik has been charged with murder in connection with Friday's shooting at 58 Leslie Avenue.

Bartosik is accused in the fatal shooting of 61-year-old Michael Lewis, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Bartosik also has been charged with counts of first-degree and second-degree attempted murder. Investigators said he's accused of wounding a female family member and firing at police who arrived at the residence.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar said Bartosik along with his mother and brother had moved in temporarily to the Lewis home in November.

Deputies were sent to the residence on Christmas Day after Bartosik engaged in a physical dispute with other family members who were trying to take away a TV and video game console.

Michael Lewis was granted a "no-harass order" by Conklin town court the next day.

On December 31, Lewis called police after Bartosik reportedly got into an argument with his mother. An investigation concluded no crime had occurred and the court order had not been violated.

Akshar said Lewis and another family member tried to intervene when Bartosik engaged in another argument with his mother on Friday morning. Bartosik allegedly shot Lewis in the face with a .22 caliber handgun. Another female relative also was shot in the face.

Both victims fled to a bedroom as Bartosik fired more shots. Lewis sustained additional gunshot wounds to his chest and a hand. The female victim also was shot in the back.

Lewis was pronounced dead at the scene. The other victim - whose name and age were not released - remains hospitalized.

Akshar said a Bartosik fired the pistol at a sheriff's deputy and state trooper when they first tried to enter the house. The suspect eventually came out of the house and surrendered to police.

Bartosik is being held in Broome County Jail in the town of Dickinson.

WNBF NEWS VIDEO: Sheriff Fred Akshar spoke about the Conklin incident during a news conference on January 6, 2025.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.