Police arrest 2 in connection to case of 15-year-old found dead in New Rochelle

Officers say they responded to a report of an unresponsive person at the intersection of Charles Street and Washington Avenue around 6:15 a.m. and found Jonson Temaj.

Melanie Palmer

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Feb 6, 2025, 3:26 PM

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Updated 3 hr ago

UPDATE 2/7/2025: Police say two people, a 32-year-old man and a 16-year-old, have been arrested in connection to the Jonson Temaj case. Investigators say the two people removed Jonson Temaj from a nearby residence and left him on the sidewalk.

New Rochelle police have identified the two people arrested as 32-year-old Hugo Perez Gabriel, who is charged with concealment of a human corpse and endangering the welfare of a child, and a 16-year-old unidentified individual, who is charged with concealment of a human corpse and possession of a forged instrument.

Original story below:

The body of a 15-year-old male was found in New Rochelle early Thursday, police say.

He was identified as Jonson Temaj.

Officers say they responded to a report of an unresponsive person at the intersection of Charles Street and Washington Avenue around 6:15 a.m. and found Temaj.

"Saw a whole lot of cops out here, everyone was wondering what it was. Once you see the yellow tape, you know it's something serious," says New Rochelle resident Eduardo Valencia.

Officers attempted to render aid, before Temaj was taken by ambulance to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.

"Always a tragedy, when something happens around here," says Valencia.

Police said the teenager was a student at New Rochelle High School.

"It is with profound sadness that I write to you as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of a member of our New Rochelle High School student community. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with all who are grieving this young man lost far too soon," says the City School District of New Rochelle Superintendent Corey Reynolds.

Detectives say they have identified several persons of interest.

"It's a sad story but we'll get to the bottom of it," says Captain J. Collins Coyne, with the New Rochelle Police Department.

There is no threat to the public, according to police.

The Westchester County Medical Examiner's Office has been notified and will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause and manner of death.

The New Rochelle Police Department is urging anyone with information to call 914-654-2300 or anonymously at 914-632-COPS.

Read the full statement from the City School District of New Rochelle below:

Dear City School District of New Rochelle Community,

It is with profound sadness that I write to you as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of a member of our New Rochelle High School student community. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with all who are grieving this young man lost far too soon.

The passing of such a young life is devastating, leaving an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. In times like these, we are reminded of the strength of our community and the importance of supporting one another through sorrow and healing.

Our school district crisis and support teams are available to assist students, staff, and families who may be struggling during this difficult time. We encourage anyone in need of support to reach out, as we navigate this tragedy together.

This is a time for reflection, compassion, and unity as we collectively grieve our loss. Let us lean on one another, offer kindness, and work together to strengthen the bonds of our community. Let’s remain committed to supporting each other as One New Rochelle.

With deepest sympathy and sadness,

Corey W. Reynolds

Superintendent of Schools