Four young gang members have recently been indicted in connection with the tragic shooting death of 16-year-old Claudia Quatey in Queens three years ago. The suspects, Messiah Randall, Jomar Pointdujour, Nicolson Pierrimas, and Zaire Rolley, all members or associates of the 007 gang, are facing charges of murder, conspiracy, and criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Queens DA’s Office.
The incident occurred on May 10, 2023, when Quatey was with a group of friends at Locust Manor Park near P.S. 15. One of the individuals in the group had planned a confrontation with a rival teen, leading to a violent clash. Quatey, who was in a blue Hyundai Venue with her friends, including a member of the rival TopOpp gang, became the unintended victim of the altercation.
Randall and Pierrimas allegedly approached the vehicle and fired multiple rounds, with Quatey sitting directly behind the intended target. Tragically, she was struck in the head and sustained grave injuries. Despite being placed on life support, she ultimately succumbed to her injuries days later.
Quatey, a student at Queens High School of Teaching with aspirations of becoming a nurse, was described by her family as loving and compassionate. Her father, Albert Quaatey, expressed his grief over the senseless loss of his daughter and emphasized the prevalence of youth violence in the community.
The suspects, who were juveniles at the time of the shooting, now face the possibility of spending 25 years to life behind bars if convicted. Queens DA Melinda Katz condemned the violence that took Quatey’s life, stressing the need to dismantle gangs and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
The tragic death of Claudia Quatey serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of gang violence on families and communities. As the legal proceedings move forward, the hope is that justice will be served for Quatey and her loved ones, and efforts to combat gang activity will continue to protect innocent lives.
