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Two suspects connected to the shooting of an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer in New York City have been indicted on additional charges, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and New York City Mayor Eric Adams revealed the state-level charges against Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez and Christhian Aybar-Berroa during a press conference.
New Charges Filed
Mora, identified as the alleged gunman, now faces charges of attempted murder in both the first and second degrees. Both suspects are also charged with assault, attempted robbery, robbery, and criminal possession of a weapon. They are scheduled to be arraigned later this month.
District Attorney Bragg commended the officer for his courage and swift action, even while off duty.
Bragg stated, “This officer demonstrated true bravery and quick thinking, even in an off-duty situation. We will not accept violence against law enforcement or innocent civilians in our city.”
The DA characterized the incident as part of a premeditated robbery spree, with the suspects allegedly having stolen a woman’s phone earlier that evening.
“These individuals represented a significant threat and displayed a blatant disregard for the safety of others in our community,” said Mayor Adams. “Their apprehension is the result of strong collaboration between federal authorities, the NYPD, and the District Attorney’s office.”
Details of the Shooting
According to police reports, the off-duty CBP officer was enjoying the evening near the Little Red Lighthouse at Fort Washington Park, under the George Washington Bridge, shortly before midnight on July 19 when the suspects arrived on a moped.
“One of the men dismounted from the scooter, brandished a firearm, and confronted the officer and his companion, who were merely relaxing on a summer night,” Adams explained.
The officer sustained gunshot wounds to his face and forearm but managed to return fire, injuring one of the suspects. Remarkably, despite serious injuries, the officer is expected to make a full recovery.
Immigration Status and Federal Charges
The Department of Homeland Security previously confirmed that both suspects are illegal immigrants with prior criminal records. They are also connected to ongoing investigations, as stated by the NYPD.
Ricky Patel, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New York, emphasized that the attack represented a threat to the broader law enforcement community.
“When these individuals targeted one of our officers, whether knowingly or not, they endangered all of us,” Patel asserted. “We are dedicated to pursuing justice alongside our law enforcement partners.”
Patel added, “Mora and Aybar made a grave mistake during their alleged robbery spree last month. Their choices not only altered their lives but also impacted the life of a federal officer who was simply enjoying a summer night.”
Wider Investigations Underway
Sources from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported that the individuals involved in the shooting are believed to be the same men recorded during an armed robbery of a business in Leominster, Massachusetts, earlier this year. This incident reportedly included a store owner being bound with duct tape and held at gunpoint, resulting in the theft of two firearms.
Political Reactions and Calls for Change
The attack prompted reactions from prominent figures, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and former Border Patrol official Tom Homan, both of whom visited the injured officer in the hospital. They emphasized the necessity for stricter immigration enforcement and condemned sanctuary policies.
“Sanctuary cities serve as safe havens for criminals. President Trump will not stand for this,” Homan declared.
In a social media post, President Trump reacted to the incident, stating that “an incredible CBP officer was shot by an illegal alien sent into the country under President Biden’s policies.” He praised the officer’s bravery despite his wounds, highlighting his courage and skill during the attack.
When asked about Secretary Noem’s statements, Mayor Adams distanced himself from federal immigration policy, asserting, “I have no influence over the rules that govern immigration. My role is to execute the law.”
Commendations for Law Enforcement Collaboration
Adams concluded the press conference by praising the swift coordination among law enforcement agencies. He stated, “Thanks to the heroic actions of the wounded officer and our collaborative efforts across multiple agencies, two dangerous criminals are now off our streets.”
This report includes contributions from Fox News’ Greg Norman.
