HEMPSTEAD, NY – On March 1, 2025, at approximately 12:22 PM, Hempstead Police responded to what has been described as a broad-daylight execution at the busy intersection of West Graham Avenue and Peninsula Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers discovered 19-year-old Jefferson J. Mancia-Fernandez, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead by medical personnel.
Arrests Made:
- Jeremias Ferrufino-Rodriguez: On March 3, 2025, 18-year-old Jeremias Ferrufino-Rodriguez of Hempstead was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He was arraigned at First District Court, located at 99 Main Street, Hempstead.
- Brayan Pineda: Subsequently, on March 10, 2025, 20-year-old Brayan Pineda of Elmont was arrested in connection with the incident. He is charged with first-degree hindering prosecution and is scheduled to be arraigned on March 11, 2025, at First District Court in Hempstead.
During the arraignment of Jeremias Ferrufino-Rodriguez on March 3, 2025, at the First District Court in Hempstead, a significant disturbance occurred. After the judge ordered Ferrufino-Rodriguez to be held without bail, a spectator – believed to be a relative of the defendant – began shouting words of encouragement to him such as to “hold his head up“. Court officers attempted to remove the individual, leading to a physical altercation that required at least six officers to subdue and escort him from the courtroom. The individual was subsequently charged with contempt, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest.
Police have not released details about Pineda’s alleged role in the crime, nor have they released a motive.
The Nassau County Homicide Squad continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the crime to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS or call 911. All calls will remain anonymous.
