Bensonhurst, New York – The arrest of Leopoldo Nash Montoya, the 18-year-old suspect charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of Faridun Mavlonov in Brooklyn last summer, brought a mix of emotions for the grieving father. Despite the capture of the alleged gunman responsible for his son’s tragic death, Firdavs Mavlonov expressed that the pain of losing his son remains unchanged. The incident occurred on July 17, 2023, in Bensonhurst, where Faridun Mavlonov, a 15-year-old James Madison High School student, was fatally shot in a street clash sparked by a school argument that turned violent.
The suspect, Leopoldo Nash Montoya, was apprehended earlier this month in Panama and subsequently extradited to New York City to face charges of second-degree murder. Montoya was brought before the authorities to await his arraignment, where he remained silent and kept his head bowed as he was escorted by law enforcement officers. The details of how Montoya was tracked down were not disclosed by the police.
Following news of the arrest, Firdavs Mavlonov shared his feelings of heartbreak and a desire for justice. He expressed his anguish at the senseless loss of his son, emphasizing that nothing can bring him back. Despite the arrest, Mavlonov reiterated the difficulty of facing the reality of his son’s absence and the impact of the tragedy on his family.
Faridun Mavlonov, who had aspirations of becoming a professional UFC fighter, was described by friends as someone who shunned violence and sought to resolve conflicts peacefully. His untimely death during the clash between Montoya and another boy targeted by the gunman highlighted the tragic consequences of escalating disputes to gunfire.
According to police reports, Mavlonov happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, caught in the crossfire intended for another individual. The shooting occurred in broad daylight, and Mavlonov was with several other youths, including the intended target, when the gunfire erupted. His friends remembered him as a protective figure, resembling a big brother who cared for those around him.
As Montoya faces charges of second-degree murder, attempted murder, gang assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and assault in connection with the fatal shooting, the Mavlonov family awaits the start of the court proceedings to determine the outcome of the case. Despite the pain and loss they continue to endure, Firdavs Mavlonov expressed gratitude towards those who have supported the family during this difficult time, including law enforcement, the mayor, and the media.