Five children were hospitalized after a Valley Stream man allegedly sprayed a chemical substance toward a neighboring home during a Fourth of July weekend barbecue, Nassau County police said.
Nicholas Stolz, 46, of Valley Stream, was arrested following the incident, which was reported at approximately 8:14 p.m. Friday, July 3.
Police said officers responded to a residence on Cochran Place following a dispute between neighbors. Investigators determined that Stolz allegedly sprayed the substance toward the neighboring property while people were gathered for the barbecue.
The children taken to hospitals included two 15-year-olds, a 14-year-old, a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old, according to police reports cited by PIX11.
The substance reportedly caused burning pain in the victims’ eyes and difficulty breathing. All five children were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and treatment and were listed in stable condition.
Stolz allegedly told police that he had sprayed a mixture containing vinegar, salt, soap and water in his yard to treat weeds.
Police arrested Stolz without incident following an investigation.
He was charged with seven counts of third-degree assault and four counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Stolz was scheduled to be arraigned Saturday, July 4, at First District Court in Hempstead.
The charges are allegations, and Stolz is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
