Teen charged in fatal NYC stabbing had just been cut loose without bail: DA

One of the teenagers involved in the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old boy in Queens was actually on supervised release for a separate gang assault case at the time of the incident. Derek Trejo, 18, had been released by Judge Jennifer Tubridy just two months before the fatal altercation with Josue Argudo in Woodhaven.

Trejo had been part of a group of seven individuals who had brutally assaulted a 34-year-old man, ultimately stabbing him in the back, back in July of 2025. Despite the Queens District Attorney’s Office requesting bail, Trejo was granted supervised release by Judge Tubridy.

Unfortunately, less than two months after his release, Trejo and a 17-year-old accomplice got into an argument with Argudo that escalated into a deadly stabbing on Jamaica Avenue. Trejo now faces a second-degree murder charge for his involvement in the incident.

Neighbors of Argudo were shocked by the judge’s decision to release Trejo, with one resident expressing disbelief at the lack of concern for public safety. Another neighbor mentioned that gang members in the area seemed to be aware that they would not face serious consequences for their actions.

Argudo, who was described as a kind and nonviolent teenager, was attacked by the two suspects despite trying to flee the scene. The younger accomplice reportedly stabbed him in the torso, leading to Argudo’s death despite efforts to save him.

Both Trejo and the 17-year-old were held without bail following their arraignment. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz expressed her condolences to Argudo’s family and friends, emphasizing the ongoing investigation into the senseless act of violence.

The community in Woodhaven mourns the loss of Argudo, a young man who was described as friendly and always smiling. The suspects are believed to be part of a local gang that frequents a nearby McDonald’s, with residents noting the prevalence of gang activity in the area.

Overall, the tragic incident has highlighted issues of gang violence and the challenges of ensuring public safety in the neighborhood. The investigation into the murder continues as the community seeks justice for Josue Argudo.