A tragic incident unfolded over the weekend at a birthday party in Queens, resulting in the death of a cocaine dealer who was shot and stabbed multiple times during a robbery. Lenner Zuniga, 35, with a history of 49 prior arrests, was the victim of the violent attack that took place in a second-floor apartment on 125th Street near 103rd Avenue in South Richmond Hill.
Zuniga, who had been involved in gun and drug-related charges in the past and had a reputation as a cocaine dealer, was shot three times and stabbed eight times during the altercation. Despite being rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, he succumbed to his injuries.
According to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, the incident appears to be a robbery with possible narcotics involvement. The apartment where the party took place was known to be a hang-out spot, frequented by the victim and several other males celebrating a birthday.
A fight broke out during the gathering, leading to Zuniga locking himself in the bathroom and calling 911 for help. Tragically, the 911 call captured the sound of gunshots and the victim’s pleas for assistance. It is believed that the motive behind the attack was robbery, as Zuniga’s cellphone was missing, along with cash and drugs from the apartment.
The resident of the apartment reported that upon returning from a store run, he found everyone had fled the scene, leaving Zuniga critically injured. Witnesses in the building heard a gunshot followed by screams as people hurried out of the building in panic.
Neighbors described the apartment as a problematic location known for loud music, drug usage, and attracting a younger crowd for gatherings. Despite a strong person of interest being identified in connection with Zuniga’s murder, there is currently insufficient evidence to make an arrest.
Investigators recovered three 9mm shell casings and two live rounds from the crime scene, indicating the presence of a firearm during the attack. The shocking incident has left the community in shock and mourning, with residents expressing their disbelief and sadness over the violent turn of events in their neighborhood.
