BRONX, NEW YORK – Two suspects have been arrested in Massachusetts after an off-duty NYPD detective was stabbed seven times during a daytime robbery in the Bronx. D’Angelo Caraballo, 25, is accused of stabbing Detective Jose Mercedes, while Sneider Mejia, 24, allegedly drove the e-bike used in the attack. The pair were caught hiding in a basement in Lynn, Massachusetts, after a five-day manhunt. Both could face attempted murder charges.
Detective Stabbed Seven Times While Unloading Car Trunk in the Bronx
Police say Mercedes, 33, was taking items out of his car trunk around 1:45 p.m. on October 2 near Rochambeau Avenue and East 208th Street. The two suspects allegedly rode up on an e-bike and tried to snatch his gold chain.
When Mercedes fought back, Caraballo allegedly stabbed him at least seven times in the neck and leg. The suspects took the chain and fled, but the wounded detective still chased them for about two blocks before collapsing. Emergency crews rushed him to Jacobi Medical Center for treatment.
Manhunt Ends in Lynn, Massachusetts Basement
The U.S. Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force, with help from the Boston Regional Fugitive Task Force, arrested both men overnight at a home in Lynn. NYPD officials said the suspects were found hiding in the basement. The arrests came five days after the stabbing, ending a search that began in the Bronx.
Caraballo and Mejia were scheduled to appear in Lynn District Court as fugitives from justice. They are expected to be returned to New York to face charges in the brutal attack. Both men are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Detective Walks Out of Jacobi Medical Center to Cheers From Fellow Officers
Mercedes, a 10-year veteran of the 44th Precinct, was treated at Jacobi Medical Center and released on October 6. He was wheeled out before standing and walking on his own as hundreds of fellow NYPD officers applauded.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised his strength and said the entire department stands behind him during his recovery. Mercedes later said he was feeling much better. Bagpipes played as officers lined up to welcome him outside the hospital.
Suspects’ Criminal Records and Immigration Status Under Scrutiny
The Department of Homeland Security says both men are Dominican citizens living in the U.S. illegally. DHS said Mejia had received a final order of removal, and an ICE detainer for him was reportedly not honored by city officials. The case has fueled debate over New York City’s sanctuary policies.
Caraballo has prior arrests, including a July menacing charge for allegedly threatening to stab a person who rented him a room. Commissioner Tisch said Mejia had no criminal record in New York City, though DHS said he faced four prior charges.
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