United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced charges against two Dominican Republic nationals in connection with the shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Officer. The incident took place on July 19, 2025, in Manhattan, New York.
The suspects, Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez and Christhian Aybar-Berroa, face charges following the shooting. Aybar-Berroa was arrested and is scheduled to appear before Magistrate Judge Ona T. Wang.
“As alleged, Miguel Mora Nunez and Christhian Aybar-Berroa came to a New York City park and Mora Nunez opened fire—hitting a federal officer in the face,” stated U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Gun violence will not go unanswered.”
Ricky J. Patel from Homeland Security Investigations emphasized their commitment to justice: “As alleged, these defendants entered and spent years in our country illegally, and their criminal activity culminated in Saturday night’s near-deadly attack on one of our own.”
Francis J. Russo of CBP praised the officer’s actions: “Our officer demonstrated extraordinary bravery and professionalism in the face of imminent danger.”
The complaint details that Mora Nunez shot an off-duty CBP Officer at Fort Washington Park. After being struck by return fire from the officer, Mora Nunez fled with Aybar-Berroa on a motorbike.
Both suspects are unlawfully present in the U.S., facing orders of removal.
Mora Nunez is charged with possession of ammunition by an illegal alien, potentially leading to a 15-year prison sentence. Aybar-Berroa faces charges as an accessory after the fact with a maximum sentence of seven and a half years.
Mr. Clayton acknowledged assistance from law enforcement agencies including the New York City Police Department and Customs and Border Protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mostafa Khairy is leading the prosecution under the Office’s General Crimes Unit.
The defendants remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
