Investigators say surveillance video and witness statements led to the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect
COLUMBIA, PA — A 17-year-old Columbia Borough teen has been charged with criminal homicide in the fatal stabbing of a 26-year-old man earlier this month after investigators said surveillance footage, witness statements and multiple tips identified him as the suspect.
Joshua D. Flores, 17, of the 600 block of Avenue G, was arrested Sunday night and charged with criminal homicide, aggravated assault and tampering with evidence in the death of Anthony Stoy-Velazquez, according to Columbia Borough Police and the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office.
The charges stem from a stabbing that occurred during the early morning hours of July 8 in the 200 block of Linden Street.
According to investigators, an eyewitness told police Stoy-Velazquez approached Flores at approximately 12:30 a.m. and began yelling at him. The witness said the confrontation turned physical before Flores allegedly stabbed Stoy-Velazquez in the chest.
Police said surveillance footage from multiple businesses and nearby homes appears to show the two men confronting one another before Flores allegedly stabbed the victim and fled the scene.
Officers found Stoy-Velazquez lying face down in the street with a single stab wound to the chest. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators said another witness reported Flores disposed of his cellphone after the stabbing. In the days following the homicide, Flores allegedly sent text messages expressing a desire to “go on the run,” saying he was “scared” and needed to avoid being seen. Police also said a witness later told investigators Flores admitted he was the person who stabbed Stoy-Velazquez.
Lancaster County District Attorney Heather Adams praised the investigation, noting that an arrest warrant had been obtained last week but remained sealed by court order until Flores was safely taken into custody.
Following his preliminary arraignment, Judge Frank Ember denied bail. Flores remains at the Lancaster County Youth Intervention Center.
The case will be prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Mark Fetterman.
The charges are allegations, and Flores is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Key Points
- A 17-year-old Columbia Borough teen has been charged with criminal homicide in the fatal stabbing of a 26-year-old man.
- Investigators said surveillance video, witness statements and tips led to the arrest.
- The suspect is being held without bail at the Lancaster County Youth Intervention Center.
