Bob Doda

Natalie Hernandez

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Jan 10, 2025, 10:10 PM

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Updated

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A 29-year-old man has been arrested, accused in the fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old boy in Mott Haven.

The incident occurred at 300 East 138th St. near the corner of 3rd Avenue around 9:30 a.m. Friday.

Police said Caleb Rijos was on his way to attend school at the Bronx Leadership Academy when the unprovoked attack left two stab wounds to the chest.

EMS arrived and transported Rijos to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Waldo Mejia was charged with murder, manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon. Police say he has prior arrests that include burglary, arson and weapon possession.

Rijos' family told News 12 he was not in any type of gang or ever in the streets, describing him as a sweet kid who was on his way to school when he was killed.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said that “status quo is just not working for New Yorkers” and that “something has to change.”

In an overnight news conference, the NYPD said they believe the person who fatally stabbed Rijos is also responsible for another stabbing that took place on Jan. 5.

Police ask anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS. Callers can leave tips anonymously.

Neighbors and former classmates placed flowers and candles in the lobby of Rijos’ building on Saturday.

“I was devastated,” said 14-year-old Delnyse, who said she went to elementary school with Rijos. “[I] would’ve never thought it would be him because he was such a good kid. He didn’t get in any trouble, nothing.”

“Out of all the people, why him?” said 12-year-old Dealyn, who said he was basketball teammates with Rijos. “He wasn’t a bad kid.”

News 12 was told Rijos was a football and basketball player and loved math.

Those who knew him described the teen as quiet and caring.

“What they did to poor Caleb was not right whatsoever,” said Delnyse.