HAVERSTRAW, NY — The Town of Haverstraw Police Department has announced a $5000 reward for any information leading to the capture of Yandie Martinez, an 18-year-old man wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of Christen Alvarado earlier this month.
The tragic incident occurred on July 1 when Martinez allegedly shot the 29-year-old Alvarado multiple times while he was in his car. The attack caused Alvarado, a resident of Pomona, to crash his vehicle into a parked car on Fairmount Avenue. Responding officers found Alvarado in the vehicle and, despite emergency medical services’ best efforts, he was later pronounced dead at Montefiore Nyack Hospital.
Haverstraw Police Chief John Gould confirmed that the shooting was not a random act of violence. “Alvarado and Martinez knew one another, but what led to the shooting remains unclear,” Gould said. “We do not have a motive for the homicide at this point. We have heard many theories but nothing that can be confirmed.”
The search for Martinez has since expanded beyond local borders, stretching across the United States and even internationally. “We are following multiple leads from multiple sources that range from multiple locations in the United States, locations overseas, and locations in Haverstraw,” Gould explained.
Yandie Martinez is described as 6 feet tall, weighing 170 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes, and distinctive tattoos on his neck and forearm. He is considered armed and dangerous. The police have not disclosed how Martinez became the primary suspect in the investigation.
This shooting marks the fourth homicide in Rockland County in 2024, with previous incidents occurring in Stony Point, Spring Valley, and Ramapo. Last year, Rockland police investigated four homicides in total. Chief Gould has dealt with several tragedies in just the first few weeks on the job, including a child that was struck and killed by a vehicle.
The Haverstraw Police Department urges anyone with information regarding the shooting or Martinez’s whereabouts to come forward. Individuals can contact the department directly at 845-354-1500. The substantial reward underscores the urgency and importance of capturing Martinez to ensure justice for Christen Alvarado and his family.
The community has been shaken by this violent act, with residents expressing both fear and a strong desire for justice. Local leaders have called for increased vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of the community.
As the search continues, the Haverstraw Police Department remains committed to using all available resources to track down Martinez. The department is coordinating with other law enforcement agencies and leveraging technological tools to trace leads and monitor potential sightings of the suspect.
Contact Information
For those who may have information but wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through the police department’s confidential tip line or via their official website. The department emphasizes that every piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial in solving this case and bringing Martinez to justice.