A Bronx man police say was wanted in a July double slaying is now in custody after allegedly robbing his ex-girlfriend, according to authorities. Officers arrested him Tuesday in Hunt's Point, and he now faces a murder charge tied to the Ferry Point Park killings. An arraignment in Bronx Criminal Court was still pending on Wednesday.
What detectives say about the July shootings
On July 28, two men were shot in a parking lot just outside Ferry Point Park in Throggs Neck and later pronounced dead at Jacobi Medical Center. Witnesses told officers that masked gunmen took off on a moped after the gunfire. Multiple people were still in the area as investigators combed the early morning crime scene.
The double killing immediately drew citywide attention. Coverage at the time included reporting that the double homicide shocked the Bronx, as well as television reports from ABC7.
Arrest follows alleged robbery
Police identified the arrested man as Darwin Martinez and said he was taken into custody on Manida Street in Hunt's Point after an alleged robbery of his ex-girlfriend. Investigators said a seven month probe into the July shooting led them to develop Martinez as a suspect.
According to reporting from the New York Daily News, Martinez has been charged with murder in the Ferry Point Park slayings, as well as robbery, menacing and endangering the welfare of a child. His court appearance was still in the works as of Wednesday.
Co-workers and fundraisers remember one victim
One of the men killed in the July attack was identified as Adam Waldropt. Building manager Eric Lyons helped organize a GoFundMe that has raised roughly $98,000 for Waldropt's family, according to the New York Daily News.
Lyons described Waldropt as "a kind and generous soul" and said he left a lasting impression on co-workers, a small glimpse of the personal loss behind the headlines.
Investigation continues; police ask for tips
Police say the investigation into the Ferry Point killings remains active, and that detectives are still reviewing leads as they prepare the case for prosecutors.
Authorities urged anyone with information to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers through its website or by calling 1-800-577-TIPS. The department's resource page also lists online and text options for anonymous tips, and remains a central clearinghouse for case updates and appeals for help (NYPD Crime Stoppers).
For additional background on the original manhunt and scene, including details on how many people were sought early on, see reporting from Gothamist along with the NYPD Crime Stoppers page linked above.
