29-Year-Old Accused in 14-Year-Old's Stabbing in Bronx

Waldo Mejia, aged 29, was taken into custody on Saturday morning near the vicinity of a fatal attack that occurred on Friday in Bronx's Mott Haven area.

A random assault on a boy heading to school led to Mejia's arrest, according to statements made by Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. The 14-year-old victim, Caleb Rijos, was murdered on his way to Bronx Leadership Academy High School.

Law enforcement clarified that Mr. Mejia was detained close to the tragedy's scene and is facing charges including second-degree murder, manslaughter, and illegal weapon possession. Authorities noted that he had a knife stained with blood when apprehended.

The tragic event took place around 9:25 in the morning on Friday outside 300 East 138th Street. Just moments before, Caleb had left his home, part of a New York City Housing Authority complex, located at 175 Alexander Avenue.

Footage from the location revealed an inexplicable attack where Caleb was approached and stabbed twice in the chest, with the blade reaching his heart and lungs. Bystanders quickly alerted emergency services, ensuring Caleb's speedy transport to Lincoln Hospital, where he was declared deceased.

At a Saturday afternoon press briefing at Manhattan's Police Headquarters, Chief Detective Joseph Kenny disclosed that the suspect, Mr. Mejia, was singled out thanks to the vigilance of a transit officer. The officer linked him to a similar stabbing that took place earlier near the same vicinity.

Officers stationed themselves near Mejia's residence at 270 Alexander Avenue in Mott Haven and detained him upon his midnight return on Saturday.