Armed 15-Year-Old Migrant Charged with Attempted Murder in Times Square Shooting
ICARO Media Group
In a shocking incident that shook the bustling streets of New York City's Times Square, a 15-year-old armed migrant has been charged with two counts of attempted murder and several other offenses. The suspect, identified as Jesus Alejandro Rivas-Figureoa, was apprehended on Friday following a short manhunt and has been taken into police custody.
According to the authorities, Rivas-Figureoa, who was wanted for shooting a tourist and firing at police, fired a .45 caliber handgun at a security guard inside a clothing store after being caught shoplifting sneakers and clothes. The bullet missed the guard but struck a female Brazilian tourist in the leg as the suspect and one of his accomplices fled the scene.
Police further stated that Rivas-Figureoa fired at least two shots at a responding police officer while the other suspect was apprehended by a second officer. The New York Police Department (NYPD) promptly launched a search for Rivas-Figureoa, labeling him "armed and dangerous" and pursuing him for the attempted murder of a police officer.
The teenager's arrest was made by the U.S. Marshals Service in Yonkers, New York, without incident on Friday. Footage showed Rivas-Figureoa being clad in black jeans and a black t-shirt, along with a gold chain, during his arrest. Notably, he had been wearing all white when the shooting took place in Times Square.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban condemned the incident, calling it "way beyond reckless" during a news conference. He vowed to apprehend anyone who threatens the lives of police officers and the safety of the public, emphasizing that they will be pursued and arrested.
Regarding Rivas-Figureoa's background, authorities revealed that he had migrated from Venezuela and was living in a temporary shelter. It is unclear whether his case will go through family court or criminal court due to his age. Under New York law, a child between the ages of 13 and 15 charged with a serious or violent felony is considered a juvenile offender.
The investigation has also linked Rivas-Figureoa to an armed robbery in the Bronx and a shots-fired incident in Midtown Manhattan. Meanwhile, the Brazilian tourist who was grazed by the bullet has been treated at a local hospital and released. She is expected to return to Brazil on Saturday.
Despite the terrifying ordeal, the officer who was fired upon displayed remarkable restraint by not returning fire in the densely populated area. NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell commended the officer's actions, highlighting the department's commitment to being a restrained force even in challenging situations.
This incident comes nearly two weeks after a group of migrants attacked two NYPD officers in Times Square. While several suspects have been indicted, only one remains in custody.
As the investigation into the Times Square shooting continues, authorities are determined to ensure the safety of the public and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.