A grieving widow sobbed Monday night at the scene where her husband was killed with an arrow in an apparently random attack on a New Jersey sidewalk days earlier. The incident has stunned the local community and sparked a swift law-enforcement response.
The Fatal Incident
Pablo Criollo, 45, was walking home for dinner in Kearny Saturday night when an arrow pierced his back on Kearney Avenue, according to his wife. The sudden strike left him stunned and collapsing on the sidewalk.
Video of the Attack
NBC New York obtained a chilling surveillance video that captures the moment the arrow hits. The footage shows the sound of a bow snap, Criollo reaching for his back, stumbling down the sidewalk, leaning on a staircase railing, and then collapsing.
The Widow’s Pain
Criollo’s widow, Paula Amez, stood at a candlelight vigil, tears streaming as she recalled her husband. She said she was devastated by the loss. “Every morning, my daughter is asking me about her father, what time he will come home,” Amez said in Spanish.
Arrest and Charges
Authorities charged a New Jersey man Monday in connection with the chaotic series of events. The attack triggered an hours-long shelter-in-place order and a police standoff in Kearny.
Accused – Oscar Feijoo
Oscar Feijoo is accused of murder and aggravated arson. He is also charged with criminal weapons possession, and prosecutors say additional charges are expected. Attorney information was not known at the time of reporting.
Friends’ Reactions
One of Criollo’s friends remarked, “The man was looking to kill someone,” one of Criollo’s friends said. “Why did he have to kill my friend?”
Standoff and Surrender
Authorities say Feijoo surrendered to them, “armed with knives,” after the standoff Sunday afternoon. He emerged from the Kearny Avenue home where he had holed up overnight, only after first setting the house ablaze.
Neighbor’s Description
Neighbors reported that Feijoo appeared unstable. “He looked like a devil,” neighbor Cristina Pacheco said. “The way he was looking is like a devil person.”
Motive Remains Unknown
Prosecutors have not shared a potential motive for the killing. It is unclear whether Feijoo knew the victim prior to the attack.
Key Takeaways
- Pablo Criollo, 45, was fatally struck by an arrow on Kearney Avenue.
- Oscar Feijoo faces murder, arson, and weapons charges after a standoff.
- No motive has been disclosed; the relationship between Feijoo and the victim is unknown.
The community continues to grapple with the sudden loss, while authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
