A Manhattan man was indicted on Tuesday on charges that he fatally stabbed his neighbor on the steps of a Washington Heights subway station, in what prosecutors called a “senseless, vicious act.”
Diego Figueroa-Hepner, 24, is accused of fatally stabbing Washington Heights resident Johnny Medina at the 175th Street station on the “A” line on June 21. Figueroa-Hepner was charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon. Authorities say the two men knew one another and lived across the street from each other.
“Our transit system is a cornerstone of our city and we will continue holding people accountable who exploit it as a place to bring weapons and commit violent conduct,” Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said in announcing the indictment. “Mr. Medina was part of an incredible, tight-knit community and my thoughts remain with his family and loved ones as they continue mourning his loss.”
Family members described Medina to the New York Post last month as a hip-hop musician and lifelong hip-hop fan.
The indictment alleges that Figueroa-Hepner followed Medina into the subway station and started a fight with him. At one point, Figueroa-Hepner pulled out a knife and began chasing Medina, who tried to escape via the station stairs, the court documents say. That’s when Figueroa-Hepner repeatedly stabbed Medina in the neck, shoulder and torso, causing him to fall to the bottom of the stairs, according to prosecutors.
Medina was taken to Harlem Hospital and pronounced dead. Figueroa-Hepner fled the scene and was arrested the next day, prosecutors said.
According to court records, Figueroa-Hepner pleaded not guilty on Tuesday and was held without bail. His attorney declined to comment.