Cops: Holbrook man fatally shot outside his home

A Holbrook man was found shot dead outside his house early yesterday morning, police said.

John Williams, 39, was found slumped over the doorway of his black Nissan Sentra - lying outside the car with his feet inside - in front of his house on Geery Avenue, Suffolk police said.

Elly Grespin, who lives nearby, said she heard several shots Thursdaymorning. "I heard two noises - bang bang," Grespin said, adding that she thought the sounds were from nearby road construction. She said she then heard Williams' mother screaming and heard sirens.

Police responded after a 911 call reporting gunshots at about 6 a.m.

Grespin said she knew Williams for more than a decade. "He was great," she said. "He helped me with my sprinklers. He was always there when I needed help."

A man who identified himself as Williams' brother, who declined to give his name, said Williams' mother discovered his body shortly after the shooting. He said Williams was getting ready to go to work as a sprinkler repairman when someone fired shots into the front driver's side window. He said he didn't not know why.

Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. Suffolk police, who have made no arrests, combed the scene for hours, collecting evidence and talking to neighbors. They also took a computer from Williams' home.

Police said the investigation is continuing. Detectives are asking anyone with information to call the Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392 or Crime Stoppers at 800-220-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.