Occasions Sq. Capturing Suspect Farrakhan Muhammad Taken Into Custody Close to Jacksonville, Florida – CBS New York

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The man accused of shooting three people in Times Square over the weekend is currently in police custody.

One woman was also arrested for helping him escape capture.

The NYPD said U.S. marshals found Farrakhan Muhammad, 31, in Florida on Tuesday.

As reported by CBS2’s Nick Caloway, Marshals were first advised of his whereabouts after he was discovered buying dog food at a Walmart in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

CONTINUE READING: Times Square Shooting: Hero officer Alyssa Vogel talks about saving a 4-year-old gunshot victim

The marshals were then able to locate Muhammad in a McDonald’s parking lot outside Jacksonville, where he was having lunch in a car with a woman believed to be his girlfriend, CBS2’s Aundrea Cline-Thomas reported.

Officials said he did not oppose the arrest.

Marshals provided a picture to CBS2’s sister station in Jacksonville. Muhammad changed his appearance by cutting his hair.

Farrakhan Muhammad (Photo: US Marshals)

Muhammad is accused of opening fire in a crowded Times Square on Saturday afternoon. The EarthCam video shows crowds of people taking cover on 44th Street and Seventh Avenue.

Police say he tried to shoot his brother during a fight over the sidewalk where they are illegally selling CDs.

CONTINUE READING: Times Square business owners fear the increase in gun violence could hurt tourism

The bullets hit a 43-year-old woman from Passaic, New Jersey, a 23-year-old woman from Rhode Island, and a 4-year-old girl, all innocent bystanders.

“While there is no joy today, there is justice,” said NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea on Wednesday.

If you commit gun violence in New York City, you will face the consequences. No matter how far you run. https://t.co/yuIHN6zXhR

– Major Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) May 12, 2021

Shea said he made a promise to the child’s parents.

“At the time, I had the opportunity to speak to the father to tell him that we are sorry, that we would do everything in our power to get justice for his little girl. Today we fulfilled that promise, ”Shea said.

Muhammad is currently in Florida but will eventually face trial in New York.

Police said a woman believed to be Mohammed’s friend, Kristine Vergara, 22, was also arrested.

She was charged with aiding and abetting after helping Muhammad escape New York so he could avoid arrest.

The investigation continues as the police have not yet found a weapon.

All three victims are expected to make a full recovery.

Nick Caloway of CBS2 contributed to this report.