Long Island Father Who Allegedly Shot Ex-Wife and Her Boyfriend Called a ‘Monster’ by Victim’s Family

A father accused of fatally shooting his ex-wife and her boyfriend while his daughter sat outside in a car has been condemned as a “monster” by the family of one of the victims. Daniel Coppola, 50, is facing two charges of second-degree murder for the deaths of his ex-wife, Kelly Coppola, 50, and her boyfriend, Kenneth “Kenny” Pohlman Jr., 53. The incident occurred on August 28 at Pohlman’s home in St. James, Suffolk County, New York, where Kelly lived with their daughter and Pohlman.

According to police, Coppola drove to the home and called his daughter, instructing her to sit in his car. After hiding in the bushes, Coppola allegedly entered the residence and opened fire on Kelly and Pohlman. He then reportedly returned to the car and told his daughter, “I just shot your mom and Kenny.”

In an emotional interview with Law&Crime, Kenny Pohlman’s younger brother, Tom Pohlman, described Coppola as a “monster” who shattered their family. He explained that Kenny’s children, who lost their mother to cancer 18 years ago, are now enduring another profound loss.

Speaking just after his brother’s funeral, Tom expressed how difficult the past week had been for his family. “There’s been a lot of anger and a lot of different feelings,” he said. However, the family made an effort to focus on Kenny’s life rather than the circumstances surrounding his death. “We paid great tribute to Kenny over the last three days. There was an outstanding show of support. No parent should have to bury their child, and no child should have to lay their parent to rest at the hand of a monster.”

Tom described Kenny as a man with a “huge spirit” and a “love for life.” He said his brother and Kelly had been together for a year and a half, during which time Kenny welcomed Kelly and her daughter as part of his family. “They died loving each other,” Tom said, noting the couple’s deep bond and the memories they shared.

The alleged killer, Daniel Coppola, is currently being held at Suffolk County Correctional Facility. Law enforcement sources revealed that Coppola attempted to take his own life by throwing himself down a flight of stairs in jail and was hospitalized. His lawyer, David Cohen, did not confirm the suicide attempt but told the New York Post, “Everything about this case is tragic… My heart goes out to all those affected by the multiple tragedies here, and may the families and loved ones find some peace.”