Grieving mother reacts as Bronx police arrest man wanted for teenager’s murder: ‘I miss my son’
The Arrest
According to police sources, 37-year-old Kenhy Sarrias-Buelvas of Washington Heights was charged on February 26 for shooting 16-year-old Kemari Sanders at the corner of Bryant Avenue and Jennings Street on August 23, 2004. Sanders suffered a gunshot wound to the neck, paralyzing him.
The Shooting
The boy’s mother, Selena Cox, told amNewYork Metro that her son was riding his moped and dropped his cellphone, when his friend bent down to pick it up, Sanders was shot in the neck. After the shooting, Sarrias-Buelvas allegedly fled into a nearby laundromat — where detectives were able to obtain surveillance footage of him.
Grief and Sorrow
"A grieving Cox, determined to get justice for her son, spent time placing wanted posters around the community in hopes somebody would recognize him. In the months since the horrific loss, she says she has had trouble sleeping. ‘You would think it would get better; it gets worse each day he’s not here — I miss my son,’ Cox said. ‘He has a twin sister. Her name is Kimora, and her birthday party is Saturday. It’s her first one without her brother. She can’t even cope with it.’"
The Emotional Toll
Sanders’ stepfather, Tony Radcliffe Bennett, described him as a respectful boy who treated him and his mother well. He said the emotional toll on Cox has been immense. "Every day she wakes up crying, every day. I can’t tell her to stop crying. It’s just crazy," Bennett said.
Justice Sought
Despite the pain and suffering, Cox says she is thankful an arrest has finally been made. Sarrias-Buelvas was taken out of the 42nd Precinct in cuffs late Wednesday night to face justice. He did not comment on his alleged crime. He is charged with murder, manslaughter, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.
Conclusion
The arrest of Kenhy Sarrias-Buelvas brings a sense of relief to the grieving family of Kemari Sanders, who was tragically taken from them too soon. As they continue to navigate the pain and sorrow of their loss, they can take comfort in knowing that justice is being served.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was Kemari Sanders shot?
- August 23, 2004
- Who was charged with his murder?
- Kenhy Sarrias-Buelvas
- What are the charges against Sarrias-Buelvas?
- Murder, manslaughter, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon
