Teen charged as adult in allentown homicide that left 19-year-old dead

Allentown, PA – A 17-year-old from Allentown has been arrested and charged as an adult in connection with a fatal shooting that killed a 19-year-old man earlier this week, authorities announced Saturday. According to District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan and Police Chief Charles Roca, Yaniel Fermin, born February 20, 2008, faces charges of criminal homicide, possession with intent to deliver, and possession of a firearm by a minor.

Fermin was taken into custody less than 24 hours after the January 22 incident on the 500 block of West Washington Street. Police said officers responded at 9:16 p.m. to reports of a man shot behind a residence, where they found 19-year-old Jeomy Miguel Soto suffering from gunshot wounds. Soto was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital in Muhlenberg, where he later died. The Lehigh County Coroner ruled his death a homicide caused by gunshot wounds.

Investigators interviewed a witness who told police that he and Soto were meeting a man known as “Po” to collect money owed from the sale of THC vapes. Police later identified “Po” as Fermin. During an argument over the money, a fight broke out between Fermin and the witness. Fermin allegedly pulled a 9mm semiautomatic handgun and fired at least two shots, striking Soto, who was standing nearby.

17-year-old charged as adult in fatal Allentown shooting
Victim identified as 19-year-old Jeomy Miguel Soto
Dispute over THC vape sale led to deadly confrontation

On January 23, police stopped a vehicle near 6th and West Cedar Streets in which Fermin was a passenger. Inside, officers found THC vapes, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Fermin was arrested around 12:30 p.m. and held in custody as the homicide investigation continued.

Authorities said Fermin remains in Lehigh County Jail without bail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 30 in Lehigh County Central Court. Prosecutors noted that while Fermin is under 18, he is being tried as an adult under Pennsylvania law. Investigators said there is no ongoing threat to the community but urged anyone with additional information to contact the Allentown Police Department.

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