A Queens teenager has been indicted on several charges, including second-degree murder, for the stabbing death of 14-year-old Julian Corniell at a local McDonald's. The incident, which occurred on Valentine's Day, is alleged to have resulted from a dispute between two groups of teens. According to a statement by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, the fight at the Sunnyside McDonald's has highlighted the severity of teenage violence in the community, as reported by the DA's office.

The accused, a 16-year-old from Queens, faces charges including second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter, following the deadly altercation. Following the grand jury's decision, Katz said, “Any homicide is heartbreaking for the family of the victim.  This death in particular is tragic because of the ages of all involved.  Teenagers as defendants and teenagers as victims sends a message that we need to do more.  The attack on Julian Corniell was made even more tragic because it happened, as alleged, at the hands of a fellow teen. A grand jury has now returned serious charges against the defendant and my office will seek justice.” The defendant's arraignment took place yesterday, with Supreme Court Justice Bruna DiBiase ordering the teen to return to court on April 30. If convicted, the charges could lead to a sentence of 25 years to life in prison for the young individual, as detailed by the DA's office.

Authorities detailed that the confrontation broke out at the McDonald's located at 38-02 Queens Boulevard. Amidst the clash, which drew in students from different high schools, the defendant allegedly stabbed Corniell, who later succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital after fleeing the scene and collapsing on Queens Boulevard.

The prosecution of the case is being handled by Senior Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Brewer, Homicide Assistant in the District Attorney’s Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau, under the supervision of higher-level prosecutors.