Arrest of a teen with a past involving firearms for a fatal shooting in Harlem, New York, involving a machine gun with a stray bullet
In a tragic turn of events, a 69-year-old woman named Robin Wright lost her life following a daylight robbery attempt in Harlem last week. The incident, which occurred on August 27 at the corner of 109th Street and Madison Avenue, has led to the arrest of one of the suspects involved.
The robbery took place in broad daylight, with the victims being approached by three men, wearing face masks, who demanded all of his possessions. The victim, in a desperate attempt to protect himself, pulled out a firearm and chased the thieves. However, the robbers, who were armed and allegedly carrying a machine gun, opened fire.
One of the bullets struck Wright, who was walking nearby with a friend to get lunch. Despite the immediate response from officers from the 23rd Precinct, they were unable to revive Wright. She was subsequently transported to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The suspect who allegedly fired the stray bullet, 18-year-old Faisil McCants, was arrested by Homeland Security while checking in with his probation officer on Sept. 4. McCants has been charged with murder, robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a firearm.
HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel stated that McCants' alleged violence resulted in an innocent victim's death. McCants was previously arrested in April of 2023 for firing a gun at the Thomas Jefferson Houses Tenants while on probation. He was identified through surveillance footage and his social media.
The two other suspects who collaborated with McCants in the robbery and have not yet been apprehended are not publicly identified. Police are still searching for these individuals.
Juanita Arnold, Wright's friend, recalled the incident, stating that she had to check if she was okay and asked her friend if she got shot. Arnold added that she watched her friend die. The shooting incident has left the community in shock, with many expressing their condolences and calling for stricter measures to combat crime.
McCants is facing federal charges for allegedly using a machine gun on a Manhattan street. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise from gun violence and the importance of community safety.
