Bronx Teen Fatally Stabbed: Suspect Charged

A 14-year-old boy, Caleb Rijos, was tragically killed in what police describe as a random and unprovoked stabbing in the Bronx. 29-year-old Waldo Mejia has been arrested and charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/cac9c7f5-75c5-456a-84a6-796b6200ef4b/stabbing-suspect-1-ht-jm-250112_1736700152180_hpMain_16x9.jpg" alt="Suspect Waldo Mejia">

The attack occurred Friday as Rijos walked to school. Police say Mejia stabbed him in the heart and lungs. Rijos's father heard his son's final moments on the phone as the boy gasped for air.

Suspect's Criminal History

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch described Mejia as a "violent recidivist" with a lengthy criminal record, including previous arrests for burglary, arson, and weapons possession. He was also previously released on his own recognizance after allegedly stabbing a neighbor's Ring camera.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/d5f6e711-13fd-43f8-a297-7fa95b61e534/stabbing-suspect-3-ht-jm-250112_1736700908475_hpMain_16x9.jpg" alt="Suspect Waldo Mejia Arrest">

Police believe Mejia may also be responsible for another stabbing earlier this year. He was apprehended at his home with a bloody knife, his image having been identified from surveillance footage and a wanted flyer.

<img src="https://i.abcnewsfe.com/a/50b472ac-6c31-4319-83c5-04c128bff79d/stabbing-suspect-2-ht-jm-250112_1736700349884_hpEmbed_31x16.jpg" alt="Knife recovered from the suspect">

Reaction and Aftermath

Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark called the tragedy "unfathomable" and offered condolences to Rijos's family. Commissioner Tisch lamented the system's failure to address repeat offenders and individuals with severe mental health issues.

The incident has sparked outrage and renewed questions about the city's criminal justice system and handling of repeat offenders with mental health issues.