In a senseless and unprovoked tragedy, 14-year-old Caleb Rios lost his life after being fatally stabbed on a Bronx sidewalk while walking to school. The horrifying incident occurred on the morning of January 10, 2025, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.
Police have arrested 29-year-old Waldo Mejia, a Bronx resident, in connection with the attack. Mejia, described by authorities as a “violent recidivist,” has a troubling history of prior arrests, including charges for burglary, arson, and weapons possession. He is now in custody without bond, facing charges of murder, manslaughter, and weapon possession.
Surveillance footage revealed Caleb standing innocently on the street before being approached and stabbed in the chest by the suspect. Despite his injuries, Caleb managed to flee but collapsed between two parked cars. Passersby rushed to assist him, flagging down an ambulance, but he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
“This was a fine young man with a bright future,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch during a press conference. Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark echoed these sentiments, describing Caleb as a promising student and football player.
Investigators tracked Mejia through surveillance footage and detained him at his home, where they recovered the weapon used in the attack. The incident has reignited concerns about violent repeat offenders and the gaps in the systems meant to address mental health and public safety.
The senseless nature of the crime has left the Bronx community grieving and questioning how such a tragedy could occur. As the case unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Caleb and addressing the broader systemic issues highlighted by this heartbreaking loss.
