The New York City Police Department has launched a manhunt for two suspects following the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old boy in the Woodhaven neighbourhood of Queens.
Police identified the victim as Josue Argudo, 17, a resident of Woodhaven. According to investigators, Argudo was slashed in the neck during a violent confrontation believed to have occurred late Thursday, January 9, 2026.
Preliminary findings indicate that Argudo attempted to flee after the attack but was unable to escape his assailant.
“Investigators say the victim initially tried to run from his attacker but was unable to get away,” police sources said.
Moments later, Argudo reportedly collapsed while sitting on the front wall of a nearby residence. A neighbour later discovered him slumped over and unresponsive. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Authorities are probing reports that an earlier altercation at a nearby pizzeria may have escalated into the fatal street violence.
City Councilmember Joann Ariola confirmed that investigators are examining that lead, saying, “An earlier altercation at a nearby pizzeria may have led to the fight.”
The killing sparked an outpouring of grief and anger on social media, where many users expressed frustration over violent crime involving teenagers.
“I hope they find these animals. Truly tragic. He was just 17. He had his whole life in front of him,” one user wrote, while another added, “They’ll be caught, no doubt about it. The only real concern is making sure the judge doesn’t go easy, and that real justice is actually served.”
Others questioned public safety in the city and demanded accountability, with one commenter asking, “Where’s the outrage for this? Is the city going to protest this?”
As of the time of this report, no arrests had been officially announced by the NYPD, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue.
