NYPD Arrests 15-Year-Old Suspect in Times Square Shooting, Highlights Public Safety Vigilance

A 15-year-old suspect, Jesus Alejandro Rivas-Figueroa, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, was apprehended by U.S. Marshals after being accused of shooting a tourist in Times Square. Rivas-Figueroa was tracked down at a home in Yonkers, New York, after a manhunt, breaking down in tears upon his arrest.

NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban issued a stern warning, stating, “If you think you can threaten the lives of the very people who keep us safe, if you think you can put others at deadly risk and get away with it, then think again. We will never stop pursuing you. We will find you, and we will arrest you.”

Described as “very, very violent” by NYPD Deputy Chief of Detectives Jason Savino, Rivas-Figueroa allegedly fired a .45 caliber handgun during a robbery at JD Sports in Times Square. Accompanied by two other teenagers, the suspects attempted to steal merchandise before the situation escalated.

Surveillance footage captured Rivas-Figueroa firing at a security guard, with one bullet hitting a tourist from Brazil. Tourist Lone Hansen recounted the chaos, stating, “The girl who got shot was between us two. We heard a big bang and then realized what happened.”

The suspect fled into the subway, avoiding police capture temporarily. He is expected to face charges of attempted murder of a police officer as a juvenile offender. Rivas-Figueroa is also linked to an armed robbery in the Bronx and a “shots fired” incident in Midtown Manhattan.

Housed in a migrant shelter on West 70th Street, Rivas-Figueroa arrived in the U.S. from Venezuela in September. While one of the 15-year-old suspects was released after questioning, the 16-year-old suspect was apprehended alongside Rivas-Figueroa.

NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell emphasized the department’s commitment to public safety, irrespective of immigration status. However, concerns have been raised about crime trends among certain migrant groups, prompting vigilance among law enforcement officials.

Law enforcement sources expressed apprehension about potential escalation, highlighting the need for proactive measures to address crime and ensure community safety.