John Pena Sr., a 53-year-old Hispanic/Latino male, was fatally shot on November 28, 2022, in Staten Island, New York. The incident unfolded outside the Stapleton Houses in the late afternoon when two men approached Pena and an argument ensued. During the dispute, one of the men shot Pena in the upper chest. Pena, who was also armed, attempted to return fire but ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at Richmond University Medical Center.
The motive behind the
killing is believed to be rooted in a power struggle within a street gang. Law enforcement sources suggest the shooting was the result of an internal conflict within the Gorilla Stone Mafia, a gang affiliated with the Bloods. Following the imprisonment of his son, John Pena Jr., the reputed leader of the gang, John Pena Sr. allegedly attempted to assume control. This move was reportedly opposed by other members of the group, leading to the fatal confrontation.
In April 2023, authorities arrested 29-year-old Diron Miller at his Staten Island home in connection with the murder. Miller was subsequently charged with murder and manslaughter. Public records indicate that Miller pleaded not guilty and was held without bail. His criminal history includes 16 prior arrests for various offenses, including assault and criminal contempt. The investigation into Pena Sr.'s death and the subsequent arrest of Miller were part of a larger law enforcement effort to address gang-related violence in the community.
