Police Pursue Additional Suspects in Times Square Ambush
NEW YORK – Authorities are actively searching for three additional suspects involved in the ambush of NYPD officers by members of the gang known as “Los Diablos de la 42” in Times Square.
Incident Overview
So far, five alleged gang members have been arrested in connection with the attack, which occurred as officers responded to a violent robbery described as “wolf pack” style.
Details of the Attack
The incident took place around 7:30 p.m. near 42nd Street and 8th Avenue, close to a packed boxing match. Surveillance footage revealed the group, consisting mainly of young individuals, ambushing three victims during the robbery.
When two NYPD officers intervened, they faced aggressive resistance, being attacked with scooters, basketballs, and other makeshift weapons.
Official Statements
“It’s horrific enough to be a victim of a crime, but when someone openly assaults a police officer, you are attacking our symbol of safety, and it cannot be tolerated,” stated New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized the seriousness of the episode, describing it as “organized violence carried out by gang members that we’ve already taken off the streets for preying on New Yorkers.”
Background on Suspects
Among the arrested individuals are five youths listed in the NYPD’s gang database, identified as repeat offenders linked to robbery patterns in the city. Notably, one suspect is a 16-year-old already facing felony charges.
Law enforcement has released descriptions of the three remaining suspects, one of whom was seen in a black hoodie and yellow sneakers, another in a camouflage hoodie, and the third was dressed all in black with a ski mask.
NYPD’s Collaboration with Federal Agencies
Commissioner Tisch confirmed that the NYPD is coordinating with federal agencies, including ICE, though she stressed that the NYPD does not engage in civil immigration matters. An internal review is underway after ICE agents were denied access to a precinct holding one of the suspects.
Gang Background
The Tren de Aragua, a violent Venezuelan gang known for its involvement in youth crimes, has gained notoriety in New York City. This gang, formed in Venezuela nearly two decades ago, has expanded its influence across Latin America and into the United States.
The subset known as “Los Diablos de la 42” has attracted attention for its brazen activities in Times Square. Assistant Chief Jason Savino noted that the area has become a hotspot for their operations, where gang members openly recruit younger individuals, some as young as 11.
Current Status of the Investigation
The NYPD has reported substantial arrests linked to this gang, estimating at least 240, with some suspects repeatedly arrested for similar offenses. The group’s methods are believed to be bolstered by resources from the larger Tren de Aragua network.
The suspects in the recent ambush face multiple charges, including attempted felony assault, inciting a riot, and reckless endangerment, with the possibility of additional charges forthcoming. Fortunately, neither of the responding officers sustained serious injuries during the incident.
