The Tragic Story of Junior Guzman-Feliz : A Life Cut Short by Violence
Lesandro Junior Guzman-Feliz was a 15-year-old boy from the Bronx, New York, whose brutal murder in 2018 shocked the nation. His death, captured on surveillance video, sparked outrage and led to widespread calls for justice. The case also brought attention to gang violence and the dangers young people face in urban communities.
Who Was Junior Guzman-Feliz?
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Full Name: Lesandro Guzman-Feliz
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Nickname: “Junior”
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Age: 15 years old
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Hometown: Bronx, New York
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School: Belmont Preparatory High School
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Dream: Aspiring police officer (part of the NYPD Explorers program)
Junior was described as a kind, respectful, and ambitious teenager who wanted to serve his community. His family and friends remember him as a loving son and a loyal friend.
The Tragic Night: June 20, 2018
On the evening of June 20, 2018, Junior was outside a bodega (convenience store) on East 183rd Street in the Bronx when a group of men dragged him out and attacked him with a machete.
What Happened?
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Mistaken Identity: The attackers were members of the Trinitarios, a Dominican gang, who allegedly mistook Junior for a rival gang member.
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Brutal Attack: Surveillance footage showed Junior being pulled out of the bodega, stabbed, and slashed with knives and a machete. He tried to run to a nearby hospital but collapsed and died from his injuries.
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Final Moments: The heartbreaking video of Junior stumbling into a hospital, bleeding heavily, went viral, sparking national grief and anger.
Justice for Junior
The NYPD launched a massive manhunt, leading to the arrests of multiple suspects.
Key Arrests & Trials:
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12 Gang Members Charged: Most were tied to the Trinitarios.
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Five Convicted of Murder (2019):
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Jonaiki Martinez Estrella (who delivered the fatal blow) – Life in prison
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Antonio Rodriguez Hernandez Santiago – Life in prison
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Jose Muniz – Life in prison
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Manuel Rivera – 23 years to life
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Elvin Garcia – 23 years to life
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Others Sentenced: Additional suspects received prison terms for conspiracy and gang assault.
Legacy of Junior Guzman-Feliz
Junior’s death became a symbol of the fight against gang violence. His family and community have worked to keep his memory alive through:
1. Social Media Movement (#JusticeForJunior)
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Millions shared his story, demanding justice.
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Celebrities like Cardi B, Drake, and Meek Mill spoke out.
2. The “Junior Guzman-Feliz Foundation”
Founded by his mother, Leandra Feliz, the organization helps at-risk youth and fights against gang violence.
3. “Junior’s Law” (New York State)
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A law strengthening penalties for gang-related crimes.
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Increased protections for witnesses in gang violence cases.
Conclusion
Junior Guzman-Feliz’s tragic death was a wake-up call about gang violence and the need for stronger community protections. While his killers were brought to justice, his family continues to honor his memory by helping others and advocating for safer neighborhoods.
“We will never forget Junior. His name will live on in the fight for justice.” – Leandra Feliz
