Queens, New York — Three more teenagers have been arrested in connection with the brutal gang-related beatdown and fatal shooting of a 15-year-old boy inside a Queens park earlier this year, according to authorities.
The arrests come weeks after the violent attack that left 15-year-old Jaden Pierre dead following what police described as a gang-fueled confrontation during a social media-promoted water gun event.
Three More Teens Arrested in Deadly Attack
Authorities said three separate 15-year-old boys were taken into custody in recent days in connection with the deadly April 16 incident at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans.
One teen was arrested on May 12, another was taken into custody on Thursday, and the latest suspect surrendered Friday at the NYPD’s 113th Precinct, police said.
All three are facing gang assault charges linked to Pierre’s death.
The newest arrest marks the fifth suspect arrested in the disturbing case, which prosecutors say escalated from a planned water gun gathering into deadly violence.
Social Media Event Turns Violent
According to investigators, the incident began during a large water gun fight organized on social media.
Police say what was intended to be a fun gathering for local teenagers quickly spiraled into chaos when rival groups crossed paths at the park.
Authorities allege Pierre became the target of a violent group attack before being fatally shot.
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The shocking assault was partially captured on video and later reviewed by investigators.
Victim Allegedly Beaten Before Shooting
Prosecutors say Pierre was allegedly dragged to the ground by multiple attackers during the confrontation.
Authorities further allege that the teen was later forced back onto his feet and pinned against a fence while the assault continued.
A previously arrested 16-year-old suspect allegedly struck Pierre in the face during the attack and now faces charges including first-degree attempted gang assault and third-degree assault.
The 16-year-old was ordered held on $750,000 cash bail or $1 million bond during arraignment proceedings, prosecutors said.
Alleged Gunman Already in Custody
Investigators identified 18-year-old Zahir Davis as the suspected shooter in the deadly incident.
According to prosecutors, Davis — who is allegedly connected to the emerging BG4 gang — fired a silver handgun, striking Pierre in the upper chest.
Following the shooting, Davis allegedly fled to Jamaica before eventually being arrested on April 24.
He has since been ordered held without bail on charges including second-degree murder.
Police Say Longstanding Feud Led to Violence
Authorities believe the deadly confrontation was fueled by an ongoing dispute between Pierre and another teen involved in the attack.
NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny previously said the conflict dated back several months.
“They have an ongoing beef [dating back] to January, [where] the victim was jumped by that kid and assaulted.”
Police say tensions between the groups continued building before ultimately exploding into violence at the park gathering.
Investigators Describe Chaotic Scene
Officials say numerous gang members from the area attended the social media-organized event, creating a dangerous environment that eventually turned deadly.
“Unfortunately, you had a bunch of kids who went there to have fun and play, but then you also had numerous gang members from the area … show up,” Kenny said.
“Then they crossed paths and this is what led to the shooting.”
The case continues to develop as investigators examine the roles of additional individuals who may have participated in the violent attack.
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