Second suspect identified in Bronx assault on NYPD officer who was robbed of gun and wallet.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has publicly identified the second suspect involved in the assault and robbery of an off-duty police officer in the Bronx. The identified individual, Wayne Lucas, aged 23, was named in a police press release and a photograph was disseminated to aid in his capture. This announcement follows the recent apprehension of Lucas’s alleged accomplice, Taveon Hargrove, also 23 years old, who was taken into custody by U.S. marshals in Virginia a day prior.
Police reports indicate that Hargrove was detained using the handcuffs that belonged to Officer Chowdhury Nafees, the victim of the brutal attack. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized on social media the importance of tracing Lucas, stating the urgency of having one suspect in custody while the other remains at large.
The incident in question occurred early on a Saturday morning at the intersection of St. Peters Avenue and Tratman Avenue in Westchester Square, approximately 4:15 a.m., as Officer Nafees was returning home after completing his shift. The assailants reportedly confronted him, brandishing a knife, and subjected him to a violent beating, ultimately stealing his service weapon and personal belongings.
Footage of the assault reveals the brutal nature of the attack, which left Officer Nafees with severe injuries, including a broken orbital bone. Eyewitnesses reported that Nafees was left unconscious on the ground after being repeatedly struck in the face. A bystander promptly contacted authorities upon discovering him, and emergency medical personnel transported him to a local hospital.
Currently, Officer Nafees is in the intensive care unit at Jacobi Medical Center, where he is expected to undergo multiple surgeries, including reconstructive procedures for various facial fractures. His condition is critical, and supporters have started a fundraiser aimed at assisting with both his medical expenses and the financial support of his family.
In a related development, Taveon Hargrove’s father, Jeffrey Hargrove, was arrested for allegedly using one of the victim’s credit cards shortly after the assault. He has since been released without bail due to the nature of the charges against him.
The NYPD is continuing its investigation and is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Wayne Lucas. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, assuring that all calls will remain confidential.
For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to coverage from Media News Source.
