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Valentin Cruz

Death by Force
Case Description
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Valentin Cruz, a 20-year-old resident of Brooklyn, NY, tragically lost his life on May 23, 2018, during a violent confrontation in Williamsburg. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. when Cruz, accompanied by two friends, emerged from a van on Hewes Street and South Third Street. They confronted Bruce Arroyo, 21, and Jason Ortiz, 19, leading to a heated argument that quickly escalated into violence. Arroyo, armed with a baseball bat, struck Cruz in the head. In response, Cruz pulled out a gun and ...Read More
Links to Additional Sources (7)
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  • New York Post: Gang-related shooting leaves teen dead, two injured: cops
  • nydailynews.com: Bat-wielding man shot in chest after bashing shooter's head in deadly Brooklyn gunfight - NY Daily News
    •     ...View 5 additional sources
    Victim Details

    Valentin Cruz

    Male

    Black / African American

    Brooklyn

    NY

    2018-05-23

    20

    Valentin

    Cruz

    11/18/2025

    Forum Posts (3)
    I was reading about Valentin Cruz's tragic death, and it's just so upsetting to think of young lives... ...Read More
    10/25/2024
    I've been following this tragic story, and I can't help but feel for Valentin Cruz's family and frie... ...Read More
    10/13/2024
    Does anyone else find it deeply troubling that these young men, who reportedly grew up together, end... ...Read More
    02/27/2024
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