An off-duty NYPD detective ripped a Halloween-like mask off one of his alleged attackers while fighting back during a robbery in the Bronx, law enforcement sources said. The detective was stabbed multiple times in the neck and leg during the brutal encounter.
Sneider Mejia, 24, reportedly wore a rubber, flesh-colored mask with a prominent nose during the alleged ambush of Detective Jose Mercedes, a 10-year veteran of the force. Mejia and D’Angelo Caraballo, 25, are accused of attacking Mercedes on Friday afternoon as he was cleaning out his car in Norwood. Sources said Mejia drove the scooter used to arrive at the scene, and Caraballo allegedly carried out the stabbing.
Despite sustaining at least seven wounds, Mercedes miraculously survived the attack as the blade narrowly missed vital organs. He was released from the hospital on Monday to applause and salutes from colleagues.
Both suspects, identified by federal authorities as illegal migrants from the Dominican Republic, were apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Service. They were found hiding in a basement in Lynn, Massachusetts, and taken into custody. The NYPD stated that both men entered the United States illegally during the current administration. Caraballo had prior arrests for various crimes in New York but was released.
Mejia and Caraballo appeared in Lynn District Court on Wednesday, where both were ordered held without bail. They are awaiting extradition back to New York City to face attempted murder charges. Mejia appeared in court without his mask and stood stoically, while Caraballo wore a hoodie with a graphic design.
