STATEN ISLAND, NY – A 13-year-old boy’s life was tragically cut short on a Staten Island MTA bus on Friday, following a violent encounter with a 14-year-old boy. The older teenager was subsequently arrested and is facing charges of murder, manslaughter, and weapon possession, as per the local police.
The fatal incident took place in the afternoon on Hyland Boulevard, near Littlefield Avenue in the Eltingville neighborhood. Witnesses on the bus reported a heated argument between the two boys, which escalated into a physical confrontation. NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell noted that the dispute turned violent when a knife was drawn, and gang signs were exchanged.
The older boy is accused of stabbing the 13-year-old in the chest. A fellow passenger described the chilling scene, noting that the victim was seated a few seats ahead. They recalled the suspect boarding the bus and arguing with the victim, possibly over an old grudge. Suddenly, the suspect pulled a knife and started stabbing the victim. Despite the struggle, the stabbing didn’t stop until the suspect ran off the bus.
The injured teenager managed to get off the bus and call for help before collapsing. The suspect reportedly ran from the scene, appearing agitated and constantly looking over his shoulder. A state environmental conservation officer and a retired NYPD sergeant, who happened to be passing by, chased the suspect and held him until the police arrived.
The victim, identified as Syles Ular of Staten Island, was taken to a local hospital but unfortunately did not survive his injuries. Investigators are examining the crime scene and reviewing video footage from the bus. The MTA reported that the bus driver is severely traumatized by the incident. The stabbing is being investigated for potential gang-related motives.