The tragic death of 14-year-old Angel Mendoza in the Bronx has left his family devastated and searching for answers. The teen, who was brutally attacked and killed in what appears to be a case of mistaken identity, had recently started hanging out with a troubled crowd, much to the concern of his parents.
According to Angel’s father, Miguel Mendoza, his son’s behavior took a turn for the worse in May. The once good student began skipping school and getting involved with questionable friends. Miguel went to great lengths to try to keep Angel at home, even resorting to hiding his shoes, but the teen always found a way to sneak out.
Despite Angel not being involved in any criminal activity or gang-related behavior, his association with the wrong crowd ultimately led to his tragic demise. Miguel Mendoza reached out to authorities for help, but unfortunately, his pleas fell on deaf ears. The lack of intervention from family court, the police, and ACS left the family feeling helpless and unable to steer Angel back on the right path.
Angel was a regular at Williamsbridge Oval Playground, where he enjoyed playing basketball and idolized NBA stars like LeBron James and Ja Morant. It was at the playground where a group of teens attacked him in a case of mistaken revenge for a previous incident that Angel had no part in. His death was a senseless act of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
As Angel’s parents struggle to come to terms with their loss, they remember him as a loving child with a passion for music and dance. Born in the Dominican Republic, Angel moved to the city at a young age and quickly became a beloved member of his family.
The gaping hole left by Angel’s untimely death has left his family heartbroken and angry. They are seeking justice for their son and hope that those responsible for his senseless murder will be held accountable. The community mourns the loss of a young life cut short by violence, and Angel’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
