Introduction to the Case
The two men accused of shooting an off-duty Border Patrol agent during a robbery gone wrong in a Manhattan park last month were arraigned on a state attempted murder indictment Wednesday. Christian Aybar and Miguel Mora, who happen to be migrants, both remain in custody on federal charges in the case. Aybar, who allegedly served as the getaway driver, attempted to hang his head and avoid press cameras. Mora, meanwhile, remains in the hospital and was arraigned virtually from his bed.
The Incident
According to court documents, the pair allegedly spotted the 42-year-old Border Patrol agent on July 19 sitting on a jetty with a female at Fort Washington Park. Mora allegedly hopped out of the vehicle and brandished a gun before creeping up on his target. However, as he reached the officer, both men exchanged gunfire. The federal agent was struck in the face, hand and wrist, while Mora was hit in the thigh and groin.
Christian Aybar is brought into Manhattan court to face state charges.
Photo by Dean Moses
Aftermath and Arrest
Mora hobbled back to Aybar, who dropped him off at Bronx Care Hospital. Mora was arrested while in the hospital, and Aybar was cuffed the following day. The wounded Border Patrol agent, meanwhile, was brought to Harlem Hospital for treatment. Prosecutors say that one of the bullets entered the victim’s jaw, resulting in him undergoing multiple surgeries to repair his tongue and teeth. He also underwent surgery for the wrist wound.
Reaction from Authorities
“Even while off duty on a summer night, this officer quickly leapt into action in an act of bravery,” Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said. “We are committed to the safety of law enforcement officers in Manhattan, as demonstrated by this in-depth investigation and today’s serious charges. I thank DHS’ Homeland Security Investigations for its collaboration.”
Miguel Mora remains in the hospital and was arraigned virtually from his bed.
Photo by Dean Moses
Previous Incidents and Charges
Minutes before the shooting, court documents revealed, the suspects allegedly rode up to a 39-year-old woman as she sat on a park bench. Mora allegedly shoved the woman to the ground after he attempted to snatch her cellphone. During separate proceedings, both men pleaded not guilty and were remanded in federal custody. Meanwhile, dozens of Border Patrol and Customs Officers packed the courtroom in order to show solidarity for their wounded colleague. Prosecutors said that Mora has a warrant for his arrest in Massachusetts in addition to these charges; however, the exact details were not immediately available.
Charges Against the Suspects
Mora has been charged with first- and second-degree attempted murder, first- and second-degree robbery, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, first- and second-degree attempted robbery, and second-degree assault.
Christian Aybar is brought into Manhattan court to face state charges.
Photo by Dean Moses
Conclusion
The case of the two men accused of shooting an off-duty Border Patrol agent in a Manhattan park has taken a significant step forward with their arraignment on state attempted murder charges. As the investigation continues and the suspects face both state and federal charges, the community remains vigilant, and law enforcement stands in solidarity with their wounded colleague.
FAQs
Q: What happened to the Border Patrol agent?
A: The agent was shot in the face, hand, and wrist during a robbery attempt in a Manhattan park and underwent multiple surgeries.
Q: Who are the suspects in the case?
A: Christian Aybar and Miguel Mora, both migrants, are the suspects accused of the crime.
Q: What charges do the suspects face?
A: Mora faces charges including first- and second-degree attempted murder, robbery, and assault, among others.
Q: What is the current status of the suspects?
A: Both suspects remain in custody on federal charges, with Mora currently in the hospital due to injuries sustained during the incident.
