Accused killer in random NYC stabbing of 14-year-old unfit to stand trial: prosecutors
The Bronx man accused of fatally stabbing a 14-year-old boy earlier this year has been deemed unfit to stand trial by a judge, according to prosecutors. Waldo Mejia, 29, will be sent back to a psychiatric facility until he is considered fit to face trial for the murder of Caleb Rijos.
The ruling by Bronx Supreme Court Justice George Villegas comes after Mejia was removed from court for a bizarre rant about Satan. Rijos was on his way to school on January 10 when Mejia allegedly stabbed him in the chest on East 138th Street. The teenager tragically called his father as he lay dying, saying, “I can’t breathe.”
Mejia, who has a history of mental illness and a lengthy criminal record, was arrested the day after the stabbing and charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon. Prior to Rijos’ murder, Mejia reportedly attacked a subway rider in a Bronx station, leaving the victim with a severe arm laceration.
In addition to these incidents, Mejia also vandalized his neighbor’s property, including stabbing a Ring camera and kicking in a door. Despite being charged for these offenses, Mejia was released back onto the streets, prompting criticism of the criminal justice system from Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
During his arraignment for Rijos’ murder, Mejia caused chaos in the courtroom by shouting obscenities and claiming allegiance to Satan. He was held without bail and ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation. The case has highlighted the challenges of dealing with individuals with severe mental health issues within the criminal justice system.
