Man Arraigned in Sidewalk Murder – NBC New York
long Island Man Charged with Murder After Allegedly Intentionally Driving into Pedestrians, killing Teen
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Queens, NY – A 38-year-old Long island man, Edwin Cruz Gomez, has been arraigned on multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, and driving under the influence, following a horrific incident in Queens where he allegedly intentionally drove his SUV onto a sidewalk, striking and killing 16-year-old Jhoanny Alvarez. The incident occurred after a reported argument stemming from alleged harassment and offers for sexual acts.This article details the events, legal ramifications, impact on the community, and what happens next.
what Happened: A Timeline of Events
The incident unfolded in a series of escalating events, culminating in a tragic loss of life. Here’s a breakdown of the timeline based on police reports and witness accounts:
* Initial Encounter: Jhoanny Alvarez, her mother, stepfather, and boyfriend encountered Edwin Cruz Gomez and several other men outside a restaurant on Roosevelt Avenue. Investigators allege Gomez and the others made inappropriate advances and offered money for sexual acts.
* Argument & Physical altercation: The alleged offers led to a verbal argument that quickly turned physical. Bystanders intervened to separate the two groups.
* Separation & Pursuit: The groups separated, with Alvarez and her family walking to the opposite side of Roosevelt Avenue. Prosecutors allege Gomez then intentionally got into his SUV.
* Intentional Strike: According to the felony complaint, Gomez drove onto the sidewalk, directly targeting Alvarez and her family. Video footage confirms the SUV mounting the sidewalk at speed.
* Impact & Escape: The SUV struck the group, pinning Alvarez against a pole and injuring her mother and stepfather. Gomez allegedly reversed and fled the wrong way down Benham Street, crashing into a parked car before attempting to flee on foot.
* Arrest: Gomez approached uniformed NYPD officers a few blocks from the scene, claiming he had been assaulted, and led them back to the collision site.
Visual Evidence: Video footage of the incident, widely circulated on social media and reported by local news outlets, shows the SUV speeding through the intersection and onto the sidewalk. [Link to verified news source video if available]
What It Means: Legal Ramifications and Intent
The charges against Edwin Cruz Gomez are severe, reflecting the alleged intentionality of his actions.
* Murder (Second Degree): This charge implies Gomez acted with depraved indifference to human life, meaning he consciously disregarded a significant and unjustifiable risk that his actions would cause death.
* attempted Murder: This charge applies to the injuries sustained by Alvarez’s mother and stepfather, indicating Gomez intended to cause them serious harm.
* DWI (driving while Intoxicated): Gomez’s blood alcohol content (BAC) of .137% – substantially above New York’s legal limit of .08% – adds another layer of culpability. The prosecution will likely argue the intoxication contributed to his reckless decision-making.
* aggravating Factors: The alleged intentional nature of the act, coupled with the victim’s age, are considered notable aggravating factors that could lead to a harsher sentence.
– robertmitchell
This case is particularly disturbing due to the alleged motive and the deliberate nature of the act. The prosecution’s claim of intentional targeting is crucial.Successfully proving intent will be key to securing a conviction on the murder charge. The DWI charge, while serious, will likely be used to bolster the argument that Gomez was acting recklessly and without regard for the safety of others. The fact that he approached police claiming he was the victim is also a significant detail that will likely be explored during the trial.
Who is Affected? The Impact on the Community
The impact of this tragedy extends far beyond the immediate victims and their families.
* The Alvarez Family: Jhoanny Alvarez’s death has left a devastating void in her family. Her mother is recovering from physical injuries and immense emotional trauma. The stepfather also sustained injuries.
* The Elmhurst Community: The incident has shaken the Elmhurst neighborhood, raising concerns about safety and the potential for violence. Local community groups are organizing vigils and support services for the family and residents.
* Witnesses: Individuals who witnessed the event are likely experiencing emotional distress and may require counseling.
* Broader implications: This case highlights the dangers of harassment, the consequences of drunk driving, and the importance of bystander intervention.
Community Resources:
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| NYC Victim Services | 212-HELP-NYC (212-435-7692