Child Found Dead Has Been Identified As New Rochelle 15-Year-Old

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The body found this morning has been identified as that of Jonson Temaj, 15 years of age, 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.

Police are investigating the unusual death after the body of the young man was found on the roadside.

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

Officers arriving on the scene found an unresponsive Hispanic man, estimated to be in his late teens or early twenties. Officers tried to administer aid before he was taken by ambulance to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

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

Detectives from the New Rochelle Police Department have launched an investigation into the incident. Based on initial leads, police say, investigators have identified several persons of interest and are currently pursuing these avenues of inquiry.

"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.