A tragic incident unfolded in New York City when a 14-year-old boy lost his life after being stabbed. According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the boy, identified as Julian Corniell, was attacked during a fight involving a large group outside a McDonald’s in Queens around 3:30 p.m. on Friday, February 14.
Initially in critical condition, Julian was rushed to New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police have taken two potential suspects into custody for questioning. A 14-year-old has since been arrested and charged with first-degree gang assault. The investigation is still active, as authorities work to gather more information.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with one person recalling that a group of approximately 15 to 20 kids wearing ski masks confronted another group. The witness described the environment as frantic, filled with shouts and hostility, suggesting that they were specifically targeting someone.
Residents noted that many young people frequently gather at the McDonald’s, often without a clear purpose on where to go. Following the stabbing, authorities discovered a knife believed to be the weapon used, left on the street.
New York City Council Member Julie Won expressed her sorrow over the incident, confirming that the victim was a student at Hillcrest High School in Jamaica Hills. She extended condolences to Julian’s family and stated that her office would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the investigation progresses.