By Lisa Pillivant
PORT JERVIS — A 26-year-old man is in custody following an hours-long manhunt that began after a fatal shooting early Sunday morning in the City of Port Jervis, authorities said.
Police responded shortly after 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, to reports of gunfire on Hammond Street. When officers arrived near 147 Hammond Street, they found a 43-year-old man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to Bon Secours Community Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The victim has been identified as Jason Finch, 43, of Port Jervis.
Following the shooting, officers established a large perimeter along Hammond Street between Owen Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. Yellow crime scene tape was wrapped around several homes as investigators processed the scene. Residents were advised to avoid the area while authorities searched for the suspect.
David Romboukek, Photo credit: Port Jervis Police
Police identified David Rombousek, 26, of Port Jervis, as a suspect in the shooting and warned the public that he was considered armed and dangerous. The search continued throughout the day with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies.
At approximately 7:35 p.m. Sunday, Rombousek was taken into custody on Ball Street without incident, according to the Port Jervis Police Department.
The investigation is being conducted by the Port Jervis Police Department with assistance from the New York State Police, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hudson Valley Crime Analysis Center.
Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler said investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a dispute related to a drug transaction, though officials have not released additional details.
Authorities confirmed that Rombousek was on parole at the time of his arrest. Court records indicate prior convictions, including attempted weapons possession and attempted assault. Formal charges in connection with Sunday’s shooting are expected to be announced as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Port Jervis Police Department at 845-856-5101.
The investigation remains ongoing.
