Illegal immigrant from Venezuela shoots NYC police officers during foot chase in Queens, authorities say
Venezuelan immigrant shoots NYC police officers during foot chase in Queens, authorities say.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : In the early hours of Monday morning, two New York City police officers were shot while pursuing a suspect in the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens. Authorities revealed that the suspect, identified as an undocumented immigrant from Venezuela, was being investigated in connection with a series of robberies involving individuals on scooters.
The incident unfolded around 1:45 a.m. at the intersection of 89th Street and 23rd Avenue, where officers from the 115th Precinct’s public safety unit attempted to stop a male suspect riding a scooter in the wrong direction. The suspect then fled on foot, prompting a chase during which he opened fire on the officers. In response, the officers returned fire, resulting in both officers sustaining gunshot wounds.
Fortunately, the officers were wearing bulletproof vests, which proved to be crucial in protecting them. One officer was struck in the stomach area of the vest, while the other was shot in the leg. Both officers were quickly transported to nearby hospitals and are currently in stable condition, with doctors optimistic about their recovery.
Speaking from Elmhurst Hospital, New York City Mayor Eric Adams condemned the attack as a “senseless act of violence” and emphasized the importance of officers wearing protective gear. Holding up the bullet-riddled vest of one of the wounded officers, Mayor Adams underscored the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty.
The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Bernardo Raul Castro Matta, was apprehended at the scene with a gunshot wound to his right ankle. Police confirmed that the firearm used in the shooting was illegally obtained. Castro Matta, who entered the country unlawfully through Eagle Pass, Texas, was residing at a temporary migrant shelter in Queens.
While Castro Matta had no prior arrests in New York City, police believe he may be linked to multiple robbery incidents in the area. The surge in scooter-related crimes has raised concerns among law enforcement officials, with a significant increase in such incidents reported over the past few years.
The use of scooters and motorbikes in criminal activities, including shootings, robberies, and thefts, has become a growing trend in the city. Police data shows a sharp rise in these incidents, with over 80 reported cases in the first six months of 2024, compared to none in the same period two years prior.
As investigations into the motives behind the shootings continue, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in their efforts to maintain public safety..
– Illegal immigrant from Venezuela shoots NYC police officers during foot chase in Queens
– Venezuelan immigrant shoots NYC police officers during foot chase in Queens.
