A 16-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with murder in the stabbing death of a 14-year-old boy during a brawl at a McDonald’s in Queens back in February, according to prosecutors.
The suspect, who is a minor and has not been identified, was apprehended on Thursday in connection to the incident that resulted in the death of Julian Corniell. The stabbing took place at a McDonald’s on Queens Boulevard near 38th Street, and the arrested teen appeared in court before Supreme Court Justice Bruna DiBiase.
The fatal altercation occurred when teens from different high schools gathered at the McDonald’s, leading to a fight between rival groups. During the brawl, the older teen allegedly stabbed Corniell with a knife, causing fatal injuries.
Corniell attempted to flee the scene but collapsed on Queens Boulevard and was taken to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Corniell’s mother, Julia Verona, expressed her sadness over the tragic incident, stating that her son did not deserve to die in such a manner.
This arrest marks the second person taken into custody in connection to Corniell’s death. Previously, a 14-year-old boy was arrested and charged with gang assault.
Julia Verona described her son as “brilliant” and a “very fun little boy” who enjoyed playing video games and soccer.
The 16-year-old suspect is facing charges of murder, manslaughter, and gang assault, with a potential sentence of 25 years to life in prison. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the tragic nature of the incident involving teenagers both as defendants and victims, and pledged to seek justice for Corniell.
