Members of the New York Police Department, along with family and friends, gathered to honor the memory of Lesandro 'Junior' Guzman Feliz. The NYPD released balloons outside the 45th Precinct yesterday in observance of what would have been his 22nd birthday, providing an opportunity to remember the life of the teen who was killed in an act of violence, as reported by News 12 Long Island.
"Junior," as he was known, lost his life in 2018, the victim of a violent gang attack in a Bronx bodega, a case of mistaken identity. Just days before his death, Guzman had enrolled in the NYPD Explorers program, reflecting his interest in joining the police force. The badge he never had the opportunity to wear was honored by those who serve, according to a report by ABC7 New York.
Leandra Feliz, "Junior's" mother, was quoted by News 12 Long Island saying, "this Monday would have been her son's birthday." She hopes that her son's legacy will not be forgotten amidst the city's fast pace.
The NYPD officials have promised to keep "Junior" a part of the NYPD family, and have committed to keeping a watchful eye over his loved ones. That they "will always watch out for his family," the officials say, according to information obtained by News 12 Long Island.
The NYPD's tribute to Lesandro Guzman, known as 'Junior,' ensures that his name continues to be remembered, carried across the city he aspired to protect.
