Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York | Department of Justice
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, along with Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Francis J. Russo, Director of the New York Field Office of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), announced charges against two Dominican Republic nationals. Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez and Christhian Aybar-Berroa are accused in connection with the shooting of an off-duty CBP Officer on July 19, 2025, in Manhattan.
Aybar-Berroa was arrested and is set to appear before Magistrate Judge Ona T. Wang. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton stated, "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." He emphasized that gun violence would not go unanswered.
Ricky J. Patel commented on the illegal status of the defendants and their alleged criminal activity leading to this incident. "Today’s announcement underscores HSI New York’s tireless commitment to answers," he said.
Francis J. Russo praised the bravery and professionalism of the CBP Officer involved: "Our officer demonstrated extraordinary bravery and professionalism in the face of imminent danger."
The complaint alleges that Mora Nunez shot an off-duty CBP Officer at Fort Washington Park, striking him in the face and right arm. The officer reportedly returned fire before Mora Nunez fled on a motorbike driven by Aybar-Berroa.
Both defendants entered the United States illegally and are subject to removal orders. Mora Nunez faces one count of possession of ammunition by an illegal alien, while Aybar-Berroa is charged as an accessory after the fact.
Jay Clayton expressed gratitude to both NYPD and CBP for their assistance in this case being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mostafa Khairy from the General Crimes Unit.
The charges remain allegations until proven guilty in court.
