CITY OF NEWBURGH – Still reeling from the brutal murder of 51-year-old cabbie Jorge Arbayza De La Cruz Thursday night, friends and family held a vigil in his honor, Saturday evening, at the scene of the crime in Newburgh.
The vigil was met with an outpouring of support from the community, local law enforcement and elected officials, which made it both a somber sharing of grief and support, as well as a call to action for the collection of information on the shooter, or shooters, who are still at-large.
According to City Police Chief Anthony Geraci, in addition to a $15,000 reward being offered by the family for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators, the city has partnered with the ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) to offer another $5,000 reward.
Geraci said details are limited due to the ongoing investigation, but this case is particularly troubling given its circumstances.
“What I will say is that every incidence of gun violence in this community is troubling; but this one stands out because here is a person who came to this country, looking for a better life, he’s working and he’s attacked unprovoked, viciously, violently. He’s murdered and left in the middle of the street. It’s very troubling,” said Geraci.
Anyone with information regarding the individuals involved in De La Cruz’s murder or have information about taxi #33 prior to 8 p.m. Thursday evening, is urged to contact: the city detective’s office at (845) 569-7560.
