Teen Members of Tren de Aragua Gang Allegedly Assault NYPD Officers in Times Square

Teen Members of Tren de Aragua Gang Allegedly Assault NYPD Officers in Times Square

Eleven teenagers, believed to be part of the notorious Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, reportedly participated in an aggressive assault against two NYPD officers in Times Square late Friday evening, according to police sources.

Among the suspects, five illegal aliens from Venezuela have been arrested. This incident involved the group throwing glass bottles, basketballs, and rocks at police officers responding to a robbery call.

The youngest suspect apprehended is just 12 years old. Police reports indicate that two juveniles were later picked up by their migrant parents, while one suspect faces charges as an adult, including riot and assault.

In a media briefing on Tuesday, Mayor Eric Adams expressed the gravity of the situation. He stated, “It is horrifying enough to be the target of a crime. But when someone directly assaults a police officer, you are targeting our emblem of safety, and such actions must not be tolerated.”

Adams recognized public sentiment about the age of the suspects, noting some believe they are too young for severe punishment. However, he firmly disagreed, asserting, “Individuals who exploit innocent people should face justice and accountability.”

NYPD Officials Outline the Attacks

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch delivered a prepared statement outlining the incident. “Last week, we witnessed a disturbing occurrence in the heart of Times Square, where police officers came under attack,” she described. “On Friday at approximately 7:30 p.m., officers assigned to foot patrols near 42nd Street and 8th Avenue observed a group of 10 to 12 individuals surrounding a smaller group, which appeared to be a robbery in progress.”

She continued, “Instead of de-escalating the situation, the officers were ambushed and targeted with various makeshift weapons, including scooters and basketballs. This attack was premeditated and carried out with intent, and it will be met with firm response. Thankfully, our officers are safe, and the subsequent investigation was prompt and thorough.”

Tisch shared details indicating that police identified members of the Tren de Aragua gang as the potential suspects just hours after the attack.

“Detectives immediately began their work and identified members of a violent subgroup known as Los Diablos de 42. These individuals are listed in our gang database, contributing to the quick identification and apprehension of many suspects,” she explained.

In an apparent rebuke of city council efforts, Tisch criticized those attempting to dismantle the gang database. She emphasized the importance of such measures in combating organized crime.

Ongoing Investigations and Arrests

As of now, five individuals linked to the incident remain in custody. “So far, we have apprehended five persons connected to this assault,” Tisch reported. “Three were taken into custody the very next day; all are repeat offenders, previously associated with robbery patterns across the city. A fourth suspect voluntarily surrendered on Sunday, while a fifth, identified as a 16-year-old recidivist, was arrested on Tuesday morning.”

Tisch listed the serious charges these suspects now face, including attempted felony assault, inciting a riot, and reckless endangerment. She asserted that further arrests are forthcoming and criticized the city’s current approach to crime management.

This incident highlights the ongoing issues surrounding organized violence and youth offenders. Tisch highlighted, “This is not a mere petty crime incident. It reflects organized violence perpetrated by gang members we have previously apprehended for endangering New Yorkers. Their recent behavior, targeting officers in Times Square, reveals systemic failures. This situation exemplifies what can happen when habitual offenders cycle through the system without facing meaningful consequences.”

Criminal Histories of Young Suspects

Reports confirm that these young suspects have a troubling history with law enforcement, being linked to numerous robberies across New York since 2022. Disturbingly, after each arrest, they have often returned to the streets.

NYPD confirmed two juveniles, aged 16 and 17, were arrested and charged following the violent events of Friday night. The younger suspect faces charges including second-degree obstructing governmental administration and riot, while the older teen is in deeper legal trouble with charges that include attempted assault on a peace officer and other serious offenses.

Adult Suspects Apprehended

One adult, 19-year-old Yeferxon Jose Mijares Hernandez, was taken into custody on Sunday. His charges include second-degree obstructing governmental administration, second-degree riot, and third-degree attempted assault.

In an official statement, the police department provided context for the incident. “On Friday, May 2, 2025, two NYPD officers observed a physical altercation at the intersection of West 42nd Street and 8th Avenue. Upon arrival, the crowd dissipated, but three unidentified individuals remained. The first threw an umbrella at the officers, another hurled an object, and the last attempted to strike an officer with a basketball. The suspects fled toward Seventh Avenue, and no injuries were reported during this incident.”

Significance of the Times Square Incident

The incident occurred amid a significant boxing event in Times Square, which featured a welterweight match between Ryan Garcia and Rolando “Rolly” Romero. Romero emerged victorious in this high-profile competition.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges posed by gang violence and the need for effective law enforcement strategies to ensure public safety in urban centers.