Nassau County Police Solve Targeted Murder Case; Two Suspects in Custody
Nassau County police announced progress in solving a high-profile murder case that shocked a quiet neighborhood two months ago. The incident, marked by a car crash and gunshots shortly after midnight, left a man dead at the scene. Authorities now have two suspects in custody, identifying the crime as a targeted attack.
According to Captain Stephen Fitzpatrick, Commanding Officer of Nassau County Homicide, the suspects targeted the victim, 25-year-old Yinauri Taveras, over an alleged dispute regarding a previous transaction. Fitzpatrick explained that the suspects believed they had been “ripped off” in the unspecified deal.
Anderson Ramirez, 34, and Alex DeLarosa, 27, both Long Island residents, were arraigned Thursday in First District Court in Hempstead on charges of second-degree murder and robbery. Authorities allege the pair followed Taveras after he exited the Southern State Parkway at Wantagh Avenue.
“This was a targeted event,” Fitzpatrick stated. He described how the suspects rear-ended Taveras’s vehicle and, when he stepped out to assess the damage, attempted to rob him before fatally shooting him.
Police are also searching for a third suspect, identified as Johnny “Flaco” Rodriguez, who is believed to have been involved in the shooting. Two other individuals are being sought in connection with lesser charges. Officials emphasized that the murder is not linked to gang activity or drug deals.
“There was a past transaction between the two of them and a perception of being ripped off,” Fitzpatrick said. “This appears to be an act of revenge or retribution to recover property they believed was owed to them.”
Ramirez and DeLarosa have pleaded not guilty and are being held without bail. Their next court appearance is scheduled for December 9. Meanwhile, authorities continue their search for Rodriguez and urge the public to come forward with any information.