A New York City man has been charged with murder and attempted murder after allegedly ramming his SUV into four people outside a Queens restaurant, killing 16-year-old Jhoanny Alvarez, prosecutors announced Monday.
The incident took place at approximately 4:10 a.m. Saturday near the Prima Donna Restaurant, where the suspect, identified as 38-year-old Edwin Cruz Gomez, had been standing with several other men.
Altercation Preceded Deadly Collision
According to the Queens District Attorney’s Office, Gomez initially approached Alvarez and her mother, allegedly offering them money in exchange for sexual acts. A verbal dispute broke out, escalating into a physical altercation between Gomez and Alvarez’s stepfather.
Bystanders intervened, allowing the family to walk away. Moments later, Gomez allegedly entered his Chevrolet Suburban, accelerated toward the family, and struck them head-on, pinning Alvarez against a pole.
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Fatal Impact and Aftermath
Emergency responders pronounced Alvarez dead at the scene. Her mother suffered leg injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment, while her stepfather also sustained injuries.
Authorities said Gomez then reversed the vehicle, collided with an unoccupied van, abandoned the SUV, and fled the scene on foot.
A short time later, Gomez reportedly approached NYPD officers several blocks away, claiming he had been assaulted. He allegedly led police back to the collision site, where investigators determined his blood alcohol content was 0.137%, nearly twice the legal limit.
Criminal Charges and Court Proceedings
Gomez was arraigned Sunday on multiple charges, including:
- Murder
- Attempted murder
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Assault
- Several related offenses
He remains in custody at Rikers Island, with his next court date scheduled for September 19, 2025.
If convicted, he faces 25 years to life in prison.
Queens DA Vows Accountability
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz issued a statement condemning the attack and pledging to pursue justice for the Alvarez family.
“This defendant’s alleged actions resulted in the heartbreaking loss of a young life. We will seek justice for Jhoanny Alvarez and her loved ones,” Katz said.
