2 Arrested In Connection To Child's Body Found On Sidewalk: NRPD

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Police have made two arrests in an unusual death case after the body of a young man was found on the roadside.

Hugo Perez-Gabriel, 32, of New Rochelle, has been charged with felony concealment of a human corpse, and endangering the welfare of a child.

A 16-year-old, also from New Rochelle, has been charged with felony concealment of a human corpse and felony possession of a forged instrument. The teen's identity is not being released by police.

Investigators say the two removed the dead 15-year-old from a nearby home and left him on the sidewalk. He was found without a shirt or shoes on when police arrived.

The body has since been identified as that of 15-year-old Jonson Temaj, of New Rochelle, according to police.

"It is with profound sadness that I write to you as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of a member of our New Rochelle High School student community. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with all who are grieving this young man lost far too soon," New Rochelle Superintendent of Schools Corey Reynolds said in a statement released Thursday afternoon. "The passing of such a young life is devastating, leaving an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. In times like these, we are reminded of the strength of our community and the importance of supporting one another through sorrow and healing."

The school chief said school district crisis and support teams are available to assist students, staff, and families who may be struggling with the loss.

On Thursday morning, around 6:15 a.m, officers from the New Rochelle Police Department were called to the scene at the intersection of Charles Street and Washington Avenue.

The Westchester County Medical Examiner's Office has been notified and will conduct a postmortem examination to determine the cause and manner of death.

"The New Rochelle Police Department remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of our community," police officials said in a statement released on Thursday. "We will provide updates as the investigation progresses, while respecting the integrity of the ongoing investigation."

The New Rochelle Police Department is urging anyone with information related to this case to come forward. Members of the public who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area or have any relevant information are asked to contact the New Rochelle Police Department's non-emergency line at 914-654-2300, or anonymously at 914-632-COPS.