Police capture migrant suspected of shooting tourist in Times Square
Police Arrest Migrant Suspect in Times Square Shooting
Police walk through Times Square in New York City (Getty Images)
Police on Friday arrested a migrant who allegedly shot a tourist and fired at a police officer after being caught stealing at a store in Times Square.
The suspect, 15-year-old Venezuelan Jesus Alejandro Rivas-Figueroa, was allegedly robbing a JD Sports store with two other teenagers at around 7 p.m. Thursday. A female security guard tried to stop the three robbers and managed to retrieve a bag loaded with stolen items, according to the New York Post.
Rivas-Figueroa allegedly then pulled out a gun and fired at the security guard, but the bullet missed her and instead hit a 37-year-old woman from Brazil, NYPD chief of patrol John Chell said at a news conference.
One of the teenagers stayed in the store, but the other two, including the gunman, ran. While the gunman initially got away, responding officers were able to catch up to the other teenager, who is said to be a 15-year-old living at a Midtown hotel turned migrant shelter.
During the escape, the gunman fired twice in the direction of an officer, who drew his weapon but did not fire back due to “too many people around,” Chell said. The suspect ran into a nearby subway station, took off his jacket, and managed to get away.
U.S. Marshals arrested Rivas-Figueroa Friday afternoon in Yonkers, the New York Post reported. The other two teenagers have reportedly been released.
The Brazilian tourist, reportedly shot just above her left knee, was taken to a nearby hospital in stable condition and has since been released, according to the New York Post.
The shooting came amid a migrant crisis that has overwhelmed New York City as the U.S. southern border has seen an unprecedented number of illegal crossings. Video released last week showed a group of migrants beating two NYPD officers, and the news that Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg released several of the migrants without bail sparked outrage.
New York City mayor Eric Adams came under criticism this week after rolling out a $53 million program to give pre-paid credit cards to migrants housed in the city’s hotels.
What steps are authorities taking to investigate whether the perpetrator has a criminal record or connections to other crimes in the area
Ble to apprehend him a few blocks away from the store. Police recovered a firearm from the scene as well.
The injured tourist was taken to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition, with a gunshot wound to her leg. Thankfully, her injuries are not life-threatening.
This incident in the heart of Times Square caused panic and chaos among pedestrians and tourists. The vibrant and bustling area quickly turned into a scene of fear and confusion. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing people running in every direction.
Mayor Eric Adams condemned the shooting, stating, “This brazen act of violence has no place in our city. We will not tolerate these senseless acts, and we will do everything in our power to bring the perpetrator to justice.”
The incident raises concerns about safety in popular tourist areas such as Times Square. Thousands of people visit the square each day, and incidents like these can have a significant impact on tourism and the perception of safety in the city.
Authorities are investigating whether Rivas-Figueroa is linked to any other crimes in the area or if he has any prior criminal record. Additional charges may be filed against him depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Mayor Adams and city officials have pledged to increase police presence and security measures in Times Square to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. They are also urging witnesses to come forward with any information that may help with the investigation.
This incident serves as a reminder that no place is completely immune to crime, and safety should always be a top priority. As residents and visitors, it is crucial to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Times Square, often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World,” is an iconic landmark and a symbol of New York City. It is essential to maintain its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the globe.
Authorities are urging anyone with information on this incident to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit tips online at https://www.nypdcrimestoppers.com/.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.
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