Teen who fled to Jamaica after deadly New York shooting arrested on return
NEW YORK, United States — A teenager accused of fatally shooting a 15-year-old boy during an altercation at a New York park has been taken into custody, nearly two weeks after the incident.
According to the New York Post, 18-year-old Zahir Davis was arrested on Friday night in New York City after allegedly fleeing overseas in the immediate aftermath of the shooting. Police say he had travelled to Jamaica the day after the incident and was apprehended upon his return at approximately 9:20 pm.
Authorities report that the fatal shooting took place on April 16 at a park in Queens, where a group of teenagers had gathered for what was described as a water gun event promoted on social media. The situation reportedly escalated into a violent confrontation.
Investigators allege that Davis opened fire during the disturbance, striking 15-year-old Jaden Pierre in the chest. The incident, which was captured on video, caused panic among those present as people scrambled to escape.
The New York Post reports that the injured teen was transported to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
New York police officials confirmed that Davis has since been charged with murder.
The victim’s mother, speaking in the aftermath of the tragedy, described her son as a respectful and kind young man, expressing deep grief over his loss.