URGENT UPDATE: A woman has been charged with murder following a fatal shooting incident outside an apartment building in the Bronx on Sunday night. 59-year-old Denise Aponte is accused of gunning down 24-year-old Randy Blanche just before 8 p.m. on November 23, at 160 West 174th St. in Morris Heights.
Responding to multiple 911 calls, officers from the 46th Precinct arrived at the scene to find Blanche lying on his back, having been shot multiple times in the head. Emergency Medical Services rushed him to Bronx Care Hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead. Aponte was taken into custody at the scene.
While police have not released details regarding a possible motive, Aponte has been charged with murder, manslaughter, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon. Her arraignment is scheduled for Tuesday.
This incident marks a concerning event in a neighborhood that has seen a significant decline in violence. The 46th Precinct reported seven homicides year-to-date through November 16, a notable decrease from 25 homicides at the same time last year. Additionally, shooting incidents are down 55.3% for the year, with only 21 incidents reported, compared to 47 a year ago.
As the community grapples with this shocking event, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
