Lenner Zuniga, a cocaine dealer with a lengthy criminal history, was killed during a robbery at a Queens birthday party. Zuniga, who had been shot three times and stabbed eight times, succumbed to his injuries at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. The violence erupted at a second-floor apartment in South Richmond Hill in the early hours of Sunday. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny indicated that the incident was likely robbery and possibly drug-related, as Zuniga was known to have been a cocaine dealer.
According to Kenny, the apartment where the incident took place was a hangout spot and the victim and several other males were there to celebrate a birthday. A fight broke out, leading Zuniga to lock himself in the bathroom and call 911. During the call, the victim could be heard pleading and gunshots were reported. It is believed that both cash and drugs were stolen during the incident. The apartment resident, who had stepped out momentarily, returned to find everyone gone, leaving behind the fatally wounded Zuniga.
Neighbors in the building reported hearing a gunshot followed by screams during the incident. Alexander Wilson, a first-floor neighbor, described the chaos he heard, including a lot of noise and the sight of Zuniga being carried out on a stretcher. The victim did not reside in the building, with Wilson expressing shock at the violent incident taking place in their neighborhood. The apartment where the robbery occurred was known to be problematic, with frequent gatherings of young people, loud music, and drug usage.
A person of interest has been identified in Zuniga’s killing, but there is currently no probable cause to make an arrest. However, investigators recovered three 9mm shell casings and two live rounds at the scene, indicating progress in the investigation. The violent death of Zuniga highlights the dangers associated with criminal activities such as drug dealing, as well as the potential for violence during robberies and disputes. The tragic incident has left the community in shock and serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by illegal activities and gatherings that attract criminal elements.
The NYPD is continuing its investigation into Zuniga’s killing, working to gather more evidence and identify suspects involved in the robbery and murder. With Zuniga’s history of gun and drug-related charges, it is clear that he was involved in criminal activities that ultimately led to his untimely death. The circumstances surrounding the violent incident at the birthday party have raised concerns about the prevalence of illegal drug activity and associated violence in the community. Law enforcement officials are urging residents to report any suspicious activities and cooperate with investigations to prevent further incidents of violence and crime in the neighborhood.
As the investigation into Zuniga’s killing continues, law enforcement officials are appealing to the public for any information that may help identify and apprehend those responsible for the robbery and murder. The recovery of shell casings and live rounds at the scene provide critical evidence that will aid in the investigation. The tragic death of Zuniga serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of criminal activities and the potential consequences of involvement in illegal drug dealing. The community is mourning the loss of yet another life to violence, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance and cooperation to combat crime and ensure the safety of residents.
