A 16-year-old boy remains in critical condition after a violent stabbing in Hackensack, New Jersey, on Tuesday afternoon, leaving his family devastated and demanding swift action from authorities.
Police responded to reports of a stabbing near the intersection of Banta Place and State Street at approximately 3 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered the teenage victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. Authorities confirmed that the attack occurred nearby and that several suspects fled the scene on foot before officers arrived.
The victim was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery that lasted several hours. According to family members, the teen was stabbed multiple times and remains in serious condition as doctors continue to monitor his recovery.
Family members identified the victim as Yadreison Diaz. His aunt, Luz Diaz, described the emotional toll the incident has taken on their family, saying they have been anxiously waiting for updates from doctors while grappling with shock and anger.
She shared that the teen was stabbed repeatedly and nearly lost his life during the attack. “He’s a good kid,” she said, expressing frustration over what she believes were prior warnings about safety concerns that went unaddressed.
Luz Diaz said the family had previously raised concerns about her nephew’s safety and even made the decision to withdraw him from school earlier this year. She believes the violent incident may be connected to those earlier issues. According to her, the family had provided authorities with information and documentation related to their concerns in the past.
On Tuesday evening, family members gathered at City Hall seeking answers and urging officials to take stronger steps to protect young people in the community. They said they want accountability and a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
A city council member briefly addressed the family, acknowledging their pain and emphasizing that the city’s priority is to safeguard its youth and maintain safe schools and neighborhoods. However, the family insists that more proactive measures are needed to prevent similar incidents.
As of now, no arrests have been announced. Investigators continue to search for the suspects who fled the scene, and authorities are asking anyone with information about the stabbing to come forward.
Meanwhile, the teen’s family remains at his bedside, hoping for signs of improvement. Doctors have not indicated how long he will remain hospitalized, and his condition continues to be closely monitored.
The shocking incident has rattled the local community, raising renewed concerns about youth violence and safety. For the Diaz family, the focus remains on their loved one’s recovery — and on seeking justice for a crime that nearly claimed his life.
