The victim of a gruesome assault on a Woodside street early on Saturday morning has died of his injuries, and police have the main suspect in custody.
Victor Mendoza, 21, allegedly bashed Martin Quiej, 34, over the head with a metal pipe in the vicinity of Roosevelt Avenue and 54th Street at about 1:45 a.m. on March 5. Quiej was rushed in critical condition to Elmhurst Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday night.
According to published reports, Quiej was attacked by Mendoza and an unidentified second suspect. Though the motive for the attack was unknown, sources familiar with the investigation indicated that alcohol may have fueled Mendoza’s actions.
Although they did not appear to know each other, police said, their homes are about a block away from the scene of the crime; Mendoza resides on 55th Street, while Quiej lived on 54th Street.
Officers from the 108th Precinct, in responding to the incident, obtained a description of the perpetrator from eyewitnesses. During a search, officers later apprehended Mendoza — who fit the description — at the corner of 53rd Street and Skillman Avenue.
Mendoza was booked on charges of attempted murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief and aggravated harassment.
The investigation is ongoing.
