Man Convicted of 2020 Murder in Inwood
Accused Man Sentenced to 18 Years to Life in Prison
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. announced that the man behind the murder of a 26-year-old man in Inwood back in 2020 was officially sentenced on Monday. Rafael Negron, a 32-year-old Bronx resident, was convicted of murder and criminal possession of a weapon in connection to the murder of Joseph Bernard Nunez-Perez.
The Crime
On October 10, 2020, Negron and Nunez-Perez had several verbal exchanges on Post Avenue near West 204th Street. At 10:50 p.m. that night, Negron retrieved a semi-automatic weapon and approached Nunez-Perez from behind with another individual. A physical altercation ensued, leading Negron to pistol-whip Nunez-Perez, who was unarmed. Nunez-Perez chased after Negron and eventually fell to the ground. Negron then shot the victim in the head while he was on his hands and knees.
Investigation and Arrest
Negron dropped the weapon in a planter nearby and walked away, but was quickly apprehended by police. Negron tried to shift the blame to another individual who was with him that night, but later claimed that Nunez-Perez brought the gun.
Sentencing
On August 16, 2024, Negron was convicted on charges of murder and criminal possession of a weapon. On October 28, Negron was sentenced to 18 years to life in prison.
DA’s Statement
“The night of October 10, 2020, ended in tragedy for Joseph Bernard Nunez-Perez and his loved ones. While we have made strides in driving down shootings and homicides, there are far too many families who continue to face the devastating impact of gun violence. I am thankful to our team of prosecutors who worked to achieve a strong measure of accountability in this matter, sending a clear message that gun violence will never be tolerated in Manhattan,” said District Attorney Bragg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the crime scene?
A: The crime took place on October 10, 2020, on Post Avenue near West 204th Street.
Q: What were the charges against Rafael Negron?
A: Negron was charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
Q: What was the verdict?
A: Negron was convicted on August 16, 2024.
Q: What was the sentence?
A: Negron was sentenced to 18 years to life in prison on October 28, 2024.
