Miami Standard (New York City, NY) – A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal December stabbing of a migrant teen in what police describe as a gang-related attack. The killing has reportedly sparked threats of retaliation from New York City youths affiliated with the violent Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang.

Authorities say the suspect, whose name has not been released due to his age, was indicted on murder, gang assault, and assault charges in the December 5 attack that left 17-year-old Yeremi Colina dead. The attack occurred on Broadway near John Street in Manhattan.

According to police, Colina—who carried identification from the Roosevelt Hotel migrant shelter in Midtown—was punched and kicked before being stabbed. An 18-year-old man also sustained non-life-threatening injuries after being knifed in the arm during the altercation.

The suspect is the second person to be arrested in the case. A 16-year-old boy was previously taken into custody on Christmas Eve and charged with gang assault. Authorities believe at least two other individuals were involved and remain at large.

Following Colina’s killing, a Tren de Aragua-affiliated group known as Los Diablos de la 42 posted online threats, indicating plans for revenge. Assistant Chief Jason Savino of the NYPD Detective Bureau explained that their messages included the phrase “Every Cocolo shot,” referring to Afro-Caribbean migrants. Savino noted that gang rivalry appears to be a significant factor in the incident.

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Investigators say that prior to the stabbing, Colina’s group had allegedly confronted their rivals over flashing gang signs. However, surveillance footage suggests that Colina’s crew may have been the aggressors in the altercation. “They’re traveling towards the group of six males and at one point jogging towards them before engaging,” Savino stated. “Both sides had weapons.”

Police recovered a knife, two wooden sticks, and a pair of pliers at the crime scene.

The 17-year-old suspect was arraigned on Wednesday and is being held without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 1.

The younger teen, who was arraigned in December, remains in custody on a $100,000 cash bail, $250,000 insurance company bond, or $300,000 partially secured surety bond. His next court date is April 2.

Authorities continue to investigate and are working to locate the additional suspects involved in the deadly altercation.

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