In a shocking incident close to a Long Island police station, a 19 year-old from Hudson Valley is the main suspect in the homicide of a man without a home. The crime scene was set up in an impromptu campsite discovered near Central Islip, on the junction of Suffolk and Carleton avenues, discovered on February 18.
The accused, identified as Brayan Heredia-Escobar, was arrested after a united effort between law enforcement departments from Putnam County Sherrif’s Office and Suffolk County Police. The arrest was conducted within the Brewster village’s borders, happening on March 1.
Upon his arrest, Heredia-Escobar was transferred to Suffolk County to face his allegations. He stands accused of the second-degree murder of Condido Devenites, according to the claims put forth by the sheriff’s department.
The victim, Devenites, was discovered lifeless inside a provisional tent in Central Islip. The location was barely a short walk from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Police Department, situated again on the crossing of Suffolk and Carleton avenues. The date of the concerning incident was February 18.
Sheriff department spokespersons detailed that the condition of Devenites, along with various pieces of evidence identified within the tent, led detectives to conclude a possible homicide. The Suffolk County Police spokesperson officially announced this on record.
Deepening the mystery surrounding the incident, the exact details of the crime were scarce and a possible motivation behind this harrowing act was hard to deduce initially. The authorities were still silent on that account at the time of reporting.
Following his arrest, Heredia-Escobar was taken before a judge to face his charges in the Suffolk County Court on the following day, March 2. Pleas of not guilty were entered on behalf of the defendant.
Given the severe nature of the crime, the judge opted to hold Heredia-Escobar in custody without the option of bail pending further developments in the investigation and subsequent trial proceedings.
The investigation into this tragic event is far from concluded. Detectives are still actively seeking new leads, information, or any contributing evidence that could shed light on the horrific incident.
Believing that the community could provide useful information, law enforcement made a public appeal for assistance. They implored anyone holding relevant information that could aid in their investigations to step forward.
For those who may have vital evidence but are apprehensive, anonymity has been assured. The Homicide Squad, as well as Crime Stoppers, has established contact lines for tips and leads.
Members of the public were informed and urged to reach out directly to the Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392, should they possess any valuable information regarding the case.
For persons who may prefer to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers provided a dedicated number, 1-800-220-TIPS, ensuring the identity of the informer is protected while the information is shared.
Law enforcement officials reiterate their commitment to bringing justice for Devenites by urging the public to share any relevant information. Investigators are continuing their efforts to unravel the mystery surrounding his untimely death.
This tragic occurrence remains a case of interest and as such, is continuously being monitored and updated based on new developments in the investigation.