MELROSE — The feds nabbed a suspected gang member who they say fatally shot an innocent mother while aiming at rivals in the Adams Houses last summer.
Wandy Tejada, 17, a member of the Dominicans Don’t Play (DDP) gang, was shooting at a group of Trinitarios when he instead hit Jessica White, 28, outside the complex on Westcheter Avenue near East 152nd Street on June 11, 2016, prosecutors said.
White, a mother of two, was watching her kids in the playground at the time, federal officials said.
Stiven Siri-Reynoso, 24, was arrested by the FBI earlier this month for his role in the fatal shooting.
According to prosecutors, he was attacked by a group of Trinitarios the night White was killed. He then sent Tejada to shoot at them in retaliation, the feds said.
Tejada on Wednesday was charged with murder as well as aiding and abetting and faces up to life in prison if convicted, prosecutors said.
Siri-Reynoso pleaded not guilty to the same charges earlier this month. He could face the death penalty or life in prison if convicted.
“This case clearly shows that the violence of street gangs affects innocent bystanders, not only those directly involved,” FBI Assistant Director William Sweeney said in a statement. “While simply watching her children, a mother lost her life to selfish, careless violence.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Joon Kim said the case was a priority for his office.
“Today’s indictment will not return Ms. White to her family, but we hope it provides some solace to know that the men who allegedly took her life will be held to account,” he said in a statement.
Tejada is due in court Aug. 17.
His lawyer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
