A 19-year-old illegal immigrant from Venezuela, residing at a migrant shelter in Queens, is now facing charges for allegedly shooting two NYPD officers during a foot chase. The incident took place in New York City, where the officers have since been discharged from the hospital.
The suspect, identified as Bernard Raul Castro Mata, entered the country illegally through Eagle Pass, Texas, last July. Police attempted to stop him for riding his moped on the wrong side of the street, but he fled on foot and opened fire at the officers, injuring them. Castro Mata, who has no prior arrests in New York, is also a suspect in multiple robberies in the area.
Living less than a mile from LaGuardia Airport, Castro Mata resided in a migrant shelter that has been a point of concern for some residents. They are calling for the closure of the shelter, citing an increase in crime rates and a decline in the quality of life in the neighborhood. The shelter reportedly has numerous unregistered motorbikes, mopeds, and scooters outside, contributing to a rise in robbery patterns involving such vehicles.
The NYPD has noted a significant uptick of up to 300% in robbery incidents related to motorbikes and scooters compared to the previous year. Concerns about public safety have been raised, with residents and officials highlighting the need for law enforcement and a reevaluation of bail laws and police funding.
In response to these issues, a rally is planned for this Sunday to demand the closure of the migrant shelter where Castro Mata resided. The community is seeking changes to address the rising crime rates and ensure the safety of both residents and law enforcement officers.
