SOUTH OZONE PARK, NY – Curtis Benjamin, a 27-year-old resident of South Ozone Park, has been indicted on multiple charges including murder and attempted murder following a deadly incident at a birthday party in Richmond Hill in 2022.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Benjamin was arraigned today on a 14-count indictment that includes murder in the second degree and various weapon and assault charges. The shooting, which occurred on July 2, 2022, resulted in the death of 24-year-old Justin Baerga and left three others wounded.
The tragic event unfolded at approximately 9:39 p.m. at D-Touch Collision, an auto repair shop, where Baerga was celebrating his birthday. Benjamin allegedly arrived at the scene in a black SUV, approached the shop, and fired 12 shots into the garage where the party was being held, striking Baerga in the head and legs.
Baerga was subsequently transported to Jamaica Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The other victims survived the attack. Benjamin is currently being held, with a court return date set for September 19. If convicted, he faces more than 25 years to life in prison.