Migrant who shot two NYPD officers entered US via Eagle Pass
Migrant who shot two NYPD officers entered US via Eagle Pass
The 19-year-old Venezuelan migrant who shot two NYPD officers in Queens early Monday morning has been identified as Bernardo Castro Mata. Authorities have confirmed that Castro Mata recently entered the United States through Eagle Pass, Texas.
Details on the Incident
The shooting occurred around 1:40 a.m. at 89th Street and 23rd Avenue in Elmhurst, Queens. Officers attempted to stop Castro Mata for driving his motorized scooter the wrong way. Instead of complying, Castro Mata abandoned the scooter. After that, he fled on foot for several blocks, according to police reports.
During the pursuit, Castro Mata allegedly pulled out an illegal firearm and fired multiple rounds at the pursuing officers. One officer was struck in the leg. Meanwhile, another officer was hit in the front of his bulletproof vest. At least one officer returned fire. As a result, hitting Castro Mata in the ankle.
Who is Bernardo Castro Mata?
Castro Mata has no prior criminal history in New York City. However, he is a suspect in multiple “snatch and grab” robbery investigations in Queens. One such investigation involves the alleged assault and theft of credit cards from a woman. He has been residing at a migrant shelter in the former Courtyard Marriott Hotel near LaGuardia Airport, NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban confirmed.
Authorities revealed that Castro Mata entered the U.S. via Eagle Pass, Texas, last year. Following the shooting, he was taken to New York-Presbyterian Queens for surgery.
Both injured officers are reported to be in stable condition and in good spirits after receiving treatment at Elmhurst General Hospital. Commissioner Caban praised their actions during an early morning press conference, stating, “This could have gone a very different way.”
Mayor Eric Adams also commended the officers, showing the bullet hole in one of their vests and saying:
“Because of this vest, a young police officer is going home. A senseless act of violence. Total disregard for life.”
The officers are assigned to the 115th Precinct’s public safety unit, with one having five years of service and the other two and a half years. The NYPD investigation is ongoing, focusing on how Castro Mata obtained the illegal firearm and his activities since entering the country.
Source: NY Post