A New York City emergency medical technician has been arrested and charged after allegedly orchestrating an elaborate hoax where he claimed to have been shot in Queens, prompting a massive police response.
Yadira Arroyo, 39, was taken into custody by the NYPD and now faces charges of filing a false police report and falsely reporting an incident. The alleged fabrication occurred on the evening of Tuesday, 16th July, near 148th Street and 114th Road in the Jamaica Hills neighbourhood.
The Alleged Incident
According to authorities, Arroyo reported that he was walking to his personal vehicle around 10:30 PM when an unknown assailant in a black Honda Accord opened fire. He claimed the bullet struck his clothing but miraculously did not penetrate his skin.
The report triggered an immediate and significant response from the NYPD, including Emergency Service Units and K-9 teams. A large perimeter was established as officers conducted a thorough search for evidence and a potential shooter.
The Investigation Unravels
Detectives from the 103rd Precinct quickly grew suspicious as their investigation progressed. A crucial break came when they reviewed surveillance footage from the area.
The video evidence allegedly contradicted Arroyo's account entirely. Instead of showing an ambush, it reportedly captured the EMT alone on the street, manipulating his own clothing to create the appearance of an attack.
“The evidence gathered at the scene and through video surveillance does not support the individual’s account of the incident,” an NYPD spokesperson stated.
Charges and Aftermath
Arroyo, a veteran EMT with the FDNY, was arrested and charged on Wednesday. He has been suspended without pay from his duties pending the outcome of the case.
The incident raises serious concerns about the diversion of critical emergency resources. The large-scale response to the alleged shooting could have delayed responses to genuine life-threatening emergencies elsewhere in the city.
The case continues to be investigated, and Arroyo is expected to be arraigned in Queens Criminal Court.
