EXCLUSIVE: Teen slashed in neck in Westchester Square, suspects still on the run
Surveillance video obtained by News 12 appears to show one of the suspects running up with a knife — swinging toward Hugo Reyes’ neck — before chasing the teens down the block.
Police are searching for three suspects who they say slashed a 16-year-old boy near East Tremont Avenue in Westchester Square Monday afternoon.
Police say the attack happened near 2560 East Tremont Avenue after 2:30 p.m.
The teen, identified as Hugo Reyes, says he and his girlfriend were simply walking home when the group approached them.
Surveillance video obtained by News 12 appears to show one of the suspects running up with a knife — swinging toward Hugo’s neck — before chasing the teens down the block.
Hugo says he ran as fast as he could, believing his life depended on it.
“I don’t even know their names…I don’t even know what school they go to,” Hugo said. “They probably don’t even know me.”
His mother, watching the video back, was overcome with emotion.
“They want to take my son away from me for no reason,” she said.
Hugo and his family say it was completely unprovoked.
The teen, who dreams of becoming a mechanic, was taken to the hospital with injuries. He received stitches but says he’s grateful it wasn’t worse. He credited his jacket with stopping the blade from causing more serious harm.
“Thank God I’m here today,” Hugo said.
Now recovering at home, his family is calling for justice and urging others to stay alert.
“Please be aware of your surroundings,” his mother said. “I could have been planning a funeral for my son.”
Police had not announced any arrests and were still searching for the three suspects as of Tuesday night.
Anyone with information is asked to contact authorities.
