A 17-year-old has been arrested in New York in connection with the death of Johan Adarve Sanchez, a high school student from Cicero, Illinois, who was shot and killed on January 8. The Cicero Police Department, according to CBS News New York, confirmed that the teenager now faces charges of first-degree murder and aggravated battery with a firearm.
Sanchez was shot near Morton East High School in the 2100 block of 59th Avenue at 3:20 p.m., and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Cicero officials have revealed that the conflict arose during a large fight between two rival groups of teenagers. The suspect, who has no ties to the school, was reportedly identified by several witnesses before managing to rapidly leave state lines and head to New York. A firearm allegedly used in the crime was later found in a nearby yard.
Investigators coordinated with Amtrak police to apprehend the suspect after discovering evidence of a purchased train ticket bound for Chicago. The teen was taken into custody without incident after an arrest warrant was approved by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. As reported by NBC Chicago, the suspect is now awaiting extradition back to Illinois to face the pending charges.
In the wake of the shooting, officials at Morton East High School have urged the public to not spread unverified information. "We are aware that there are many reports circulating on social media that are inaccurate. We ask that everyone please refrain from sharing unverified information at this time and rely only on official updates," the school stated, emphasizing the need to support students and staff during this difficult period. The school's statement was obtained by NBC Chicago.
