A second illegal immigrant has been apprehended in connection with the shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection officer in Manhattan's Fort Washington Park, marking a significant development in the investigation of the weekend attack.
According to Fox News, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the arrest while visiting the wounded officer in the hospital on Monday. The secretary used the opportunity to criticize New York City's sanctuary policies, which she claims enabled the attack.
The incident occurred Saturday night when the off-duty CBP officer was shot in the face and forearm during what authorities describe as an attempted robbery. The officer was sitting with a companion near the water when two individuals on a scooter approached them, with one suspect drawing a firearm.
Previous Criminal History Raises Questions
Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, the first suspect arrested, entered the United States through San Luis, Arizona, in April 2023. He was apprehended by Border Patrol but was subsequently released despite having an active deportation order.
The newly arrested suspect, identified as Christhian Aybar-Berroa, illegally entered the country in 2022 and was ordered for removal by an immigration judge in 2023. According to Noem, he had previously been arrested in New York City for reckless endangerment and larceny but was released before ICE could intervene.
Multiple ICE sources have linked both suspects to a February armed robbery in Leominster, Massachusetts, where a store owner was reportedly bound with duct tape and held at gunpoint. During that incident, two firearms were allegedly stolen.
Officer's Quick Response Praised
The wounded CBP officer, whose identity remains protected, demonstrated remarkable courage during the attack. Despite sustaining serious injuries, he managed to draw his service weapon and defend himself and his companion.
Secretary Noem commended the officer's quick thinking and training, noting that his actions led to the wounding and subsequent capture of one of the attackers. The injured suspect, Nunez, was later dropped off at a Bronx hospital with gunshot wounds to his leg and groin.
The officer remains in stable condition at the hospital, where he is receiving treatment for gunshot wounds to his right arm and left cheek. Officials have praised his bravery and professional training in handling the dangerous situation.
Political Debate Intensifies
The incident has sparked heated debate about sanctuary city policies, with several officials weighing in on the controversy. President Trump expressed outrage over the shooting, characterizing the attacker as an "Illegal Alien Monster freed into the Country under Joe Biden."
New York City Mayor Eric Adams defended his position, stating that he simply carries out existing rules and blamed the "revolving door criminal justice system" for allowing dangerous individuals to remain on the streets. The mayor emphasized his support for targeting dangerous migrants while protecting law-abiding individuals.
CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott attributed the incident to "failed border policies," while acting ICE Director Todd Lyons criticized both sanctuary city policies and the current administration's border approach.
Law Enforcement Response Continues
The dual arrests represent significant progress in the investigation, with both suspects now facing serious charges. The case has drawn attention from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
White House border czar Tom Homan visited the wounded officer in the hospital, describing the family's devastation and the emotional impact of seeing the young officer in his condition. The incident has prompted calls for policy changes from various officials.
Local and federal authorities continue to investigate potential connections between this attack and other crimes, particularly the Massachusetts robbery case. The investigation remains active as law enforcement works to build a comprehensive case against both suspects.
