Teen indicted in Queens park killing after water gun gathering turned deadly
ST. ALBANS, NY — An 18-year-old accused of fatally shooting a 15-year-old boy during a chaotic gathering at a Queens park has been indicted on murder and weapons charges, prosecutors announced.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said the defendant was indicted for allegedly killing Jaden Pierre during a violent confrontation April 16 at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans.
A second suspect, a 16-year-old boy, was also apprehended this week and indicted for allegedly attacking the victim moments before the shooting.
According to prosecutors, the teenage victim was among a large crowd of youths who gathered at the park for a water gun fight promoted on social media.
Authorities said the gathering spiraled into violence when multiple teenagers allegedly surrounded Jaden, punching, kicking and berating him while others recorded the assault on their phones.
Prosecutors allege the 18-year-old defendant then shot Jaden in the upper chest.
The teenager was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries.
The 18-year-old suspect was indicted on charges including murder, gang assault and criminal possession of a weapon.
The 16-year-old defendant was charged with attempted gang assault and assault.
District Attorney Katz said the investigation remains active as authorities continue searching for additional suspects believed to have participated in the attack.
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Key Points
• 18-year-old indicted in fatal shooting of 15-year-old Jaden Pierre
• Prosecutors say attack happened during water gun gathering at Queens park
• Second teenage suspect charged in alleged beating before shooting