Mott Haven holds memorial walk as family demands justice following fatal stabbing of 14-year-old Bronx boy
With heavy hearts and tears flowing through Tuesday’s frigid temperatures, loved ones and community members gathered for a memorial walk in Mott Haven to demand justice for Caleb Rijos.
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4h agoWith heavy hearts and tears flowing through Tuesday’s frigid temperatures, loved ones and community members gathered for a memorial walk in Mott Haven to demand justice for Caleb Rijos.
Police said the 14-year-old boy was fatally stabbed last week while he was on his way to school.
“He was my first grandson, and he meant everything to me,” said Carmen Aponte, Caleb's grandmother.
The NYPD said 29-year-old Waldo Mejia approached the teen with a knife and pierced him twice in the heart and lungs, in what they called an unprovoked attack.
“Even though [Caleb] was 14 years old, he was still a little kid to us,” Aponte said.
Mejia was arrested and charged last weekend.
Police said the Bronx man has a lengthy criminal history and mental health illness.
The victim’s family had a message for Mejia.
“I just hate you, and I hope you rot in hell for the rest of your life,” said Ashley Rosario, Caleb’s aunt.
The teen’s family called for stricter laws during Tuesday’s memorial walk.
“I feel like the justice system failed [Caleb] because [Mejia] should’ve never been on the streets after repeated offenses,” Rosario said.
“I think that the city failed us 100%,” said another family member, who asked not to be identified.
Caleb's family and friends said they hope to stop the violence.
“Today it’s us, tomorrow could be anybody else,” Aponte said.
News 12 was told that loved ones will continue to organize events to honor Caleb and demand justice, including a memorial basketball fundraiser on Friday.