An illegal Venezuelan migrant, Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, has been indicted by a grand jury in Queens, New York, for a series of charges related to the shooting of two New York City Police Department officers. The incident occurred on June 3 when Mata, aged 19, was confronted by officers for driving a motorcycle the wrong way down a one-way street in East Elmhurst.
The charges against Mata include two counts of attempted murder in the first degree, attempted assault, criminal possession of a weapon, assault on a police officer, resisting arrest, reckless driving, and various traffic violations.
According to the Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Mata shot Officer Christopher Abreu in the chest and Officer Richard Yarusso in the thigh at point-blank range when they attempted to stop him. Fortunately, both officers survived their injuries due to protective gear.
The incident unfolded when officers observed Mata driving recklessly without a helmet on an unregistered motorcycle. When approached by the police, Mata fled on foot, leading to a pursuit. During the arrest attempt, Mata resisted and drew a gun from a bag he was carrying, firing at the officers.
Following the exchange of gunfire, Mata was subdued and taken into custody. A loaded pistol and various ammunition were recovered from the scene. Both injured officers were treated at a nearby hospital and later released.
If convicted on the top charge of first-degree attempted murder, Mata could face up to 40 years in prison. The case is set to continue with a court appearance scheduled for September 18 before Supreme Court Justice Kenneth Holder.
Authorities revealed that Mata had entered the country illegally from Venezuela and was residing in a migrant shelter in Queens. Reports also suggest that Mata may have affiliations with a notorious gang from Venezuela, known as the 'Tren de Aragua.'
The indictment of Mata serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and the importance of upholding public safety in communities. The legal proceedings will continue to unfold as the justice system seeks to hold Mata accountable for his actions.
