A Bronx mom says her 15-year-old son’s ordinary walk to school turned into a nightmare when a stranger punched him in the face in Westchester Square, leaving him with cuts, bruises and shattered eyeglasses. The family says the attack has left Elijah shaken and neighbors increasingly on edge.
As reported by News 12 Long Island, Elijah’s mother, Emilyann Montes, said her son did not see the attacker before the blow and that “to see him bloody, his glasses broken and disoriented, it’s scary. It’s heartbreaking.” Montes told the outlet the assault happened near Chesbrough Avenue and Williamsbridge Road on a Friday morning while he was on his way to school.
The family says surveillance footage appears to show a man believed to be the attacker walking through the area shortly after Elijah was hit, and they shared photos of the suspected assailant on social media in hopes someone will recognize him, according to News 12 Long Island. Montes said another woman later contacted the family claiming she had been assaulted by the same man the following day. Police have not announced any arrests.
Violence Has Cropped Up Along The East Tremont Corridor
Community leaders and local reporters say the Westchester Square and East Tremont corridor has been dealing with a string of violent incidents in recent months. One April slashing in Westchester Square left a 16-year-old with serious injuries, and ABC7 covered an August 2025 shooting nearby that wounded four teenagers. Neighbors told reporters those incidents have fueled mounting concern about safety around local schools and sidewalks.
Police Appeal And How To Submit Tips
Investigators say any video or dash-cam footage from the area could help them identify the suspect, and police have urged anyone with information to speak up. To report tips anonymously, the NYPD Crime Stoppers program lists phone and online options; call 1-800-577-TIPS or visit NYPD Crime Stoppers for details. Authorities say tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest.
Montes says she now worries her son could cross paths with the attacker again and that the family is counting on someone in the community to recognize the man and come forward. Neighbors say they are particularly concerned for children and seniors who walk the corridor. Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact the NYPD.
