16-Year-Old Arrested with Gun at Harlem School Faces Murder Charges
A 16-year-old has been apprehended in connection with a fatal shooting incident that occurred in Harlem, authorities reported on Thursday. The teenager has been charged with murder, assault, and gun possession linked to the death of 34-year-old Christopher Jimenez, who was discovered with a gunshot wound to the chest on April 17 in his residence located in the vicinity of West 126th Street and Broadway.
The shooting took place in the lobby of a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) building at the Manhattanville Houses, where Jimenez was engaged in a confrontation with two individuals prior to the incident. Initial investigations led to the arrest of another resident, Angel Celpa, 29, who was charged with assault and weapons possession; however, he was not implicated in Jimenez’s murder. The police believe that they have now identified the triggerman following the recent arrest of the teenager.
The minor was taken into custody at Philip Randolph High School, located just a short distance from the crime scene. Reports indicate that a school safety officer, acting on a tip-off regarding the minor possibly carrying a firearm, conducted a search that revealed a handgun concealed in his blue backpack. The arrest occurred around 4:20 p.m. and marks a significant development in a case that has drawn considerable attention from local authorities.
As this investigation unfolds, officials have not disclosed whether the teenage suspect had any prior relationship with Jimenez or Celpa. Police records indicate that Celpa has previously faced charges related to weapons possession in 2020, raising questions about his connections to the ongoing investigation.
Due to his age, the identity of the 16-year-old suspect has been withheld from the public. This incident reflects broader concerns regarding gun violence among youth and the pressing issue of safety in urban schools. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the case progresses through the legal system, looking to bring justice for the victim and clarity to the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
As the city continues to address issues related to crime and public safety, incidents like this spotlight the need for ongoing dialogue about violence prevention and community support systems. Media News Source will follow developments in this case closely, aiming to inform the public on the implications of this high-profile incident.
