HAVERSTRAW, NY – On Monday 7/29 at 10 am, Haverstraw Police Chief John Gould and numerous officials held a press conference, to announce details of the arrest of Yandie Martinez in connection with the shooting that occurred on July 1st, 2024, in the Village of Haverstraw.
This is an ongoing investigation, and this story will be updated throughout the day.
The shooting of Christian Alvarado – which took place in the early hours of July 1st, left one person fatally injured and sparked widespread concern in the community. According to the police, the victim was taken to a nearby hospital and was pronounced deceased upon arrival.
On the day of the incident, Haverstraw dispatch received multiple calls about a shooting near West Street and Fairmount Avenue. Officers found Alvarado inside a crashed vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency aid and transport to Nyack Hospital, Alvarado was pronounced dead. Quick investigative work led detectives to identify Yandie Martinez as the suspect.
In today’s press conference, Police Chief Gould stated that Yandie Martinez, a resident of Haverstraw, was apprehended following a thorough investigation. Martinez is believed to have had a direct role in the incident. Martinez was apprehended at a South Carolina AirBNB, after his rental was surrounded by law enforcement. Mr Martinez surrendered, and was taken into custody without incident.
“Martinez was on the run and had no intention of surrendering,” said Chief Gould. Tracking Martinez through social media led authorities to an Airbnb in Peadmont, SC, where he was apprehended without incident by the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Special Investigations Team, assisted by the FBI.
Chief Gould highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Haverstraw Police Department and state law enforcement agencies. The investigation extended well beyond New York, reaching New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and the Dominican Republic. Chief Gould highlighted the community’s role in providing valuable information, saying, “Our leads took us far and wide, and the collaboration of various agencies was crucial.”
“Today’s arrest is a significant step towards justice for the victim and the community,” said Chief Cortez. “We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we continue to investigate this matter.”
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting to come forward. The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation, and police have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests.
Martinez is currently held in South Carolina, facing a Federal UFAP warrant (Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution). He will be transported to New York for arraignment on charges including Murder 2nd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.
Community leaders and residents have expressed relief over the arrest. “This incident has deeply affected our community, and we hope that justice will be served,” said Rockland County District Attorney Thomas Walsh. “Our thoughts are with the victim and their family during this difficult time. We are committed to justice, and aim to prosecute this matter to the fullest extent of the law.”
The Village of Haverstraw has seen a recent uptick in violent crimes, prompting increased police patrols and community outreach programs aimed at fostering a safer environment.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities assure the public that they are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. Updates on the case will be provided as more information becomes available.