Customs officer shot during NYC robbery attempt; suspect, believed to be a migrant, taken into custody.
An off-duty officer of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection sustained facial injuries during a violent attempted robbery in Fort Washington Park, located in upper Manhattan, on Saturday night. The incident occurred around 11:50 p.m. when the officer was seated at the park, situated near West 178th Street.
According to law enforcement officials, two individuals on a moped approached the officer. Surveillance footage, which has been shared on the Department of Homeland Security’s social media account, captures the moment the suspects arrived. One of the robbers, dressed in a white shirt, dismounted the moped and confronted the officer while brandishing a firearm. A brief struggle ensued, during which the suspect discharged his weapon, striking the officer in the face. The officer, in response, fired his own weapon, injuring one of the robbers as they attempted to flee the scene.
The injured officer, aged 42, was promptly transported to Harlem Hospital, where he is reported to be in stable condition after receiving medical treatment. Meanwhile, police have identified the suspect who was shot as Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, a citizen of the Dominican Republic with a lengthy criminal history and currently residing in the United States illegally. The Department of Homeland Security revealed that Mora Nunez had been previously apprehended by Border Patrol in April 2023 and was subsequently released.
Authorities have disclosed that Mora Nunez is also wanted in Massachusetts on charges related to kidnapping and weapon possession. In addition, he has active warrants for a robbery and a stabbing case in New York. As of now, the second suspect involved in the attempted robbery remains at large as police continue their investigation into the incident.
This violent confrontation underscores ongoing concerns regarding public safety in urban parks and the prevalence of crime in certain areas. Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads to apprehend the second suspect while enhancing patrols to ensure the safety of community members. The incident has raised significant alarm and calls for action among local residents and officials in light of the recent rise in violent crimes across the city.
The case is under further investigation, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward as the community seeks answers and justice.
Media News Source
