Trio charged in deadly NYC ambush robbery of BMW driver

Suspects accused of killing Amir Ahmad, 26, during a botched robbery attempt in the Bronx

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:41pm

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Three individuals - Darlin Sanchez, Wanderlin Mateo, both 18, and Angelic Encarnacion, 23 - have been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Amir Ahmad during an attempted robbery in the Bronx on February 13. Sanchez allegedly shot and killed Ahmad as he sat in his parked BMW, while Mateo and the others were also armed during the incident. Encarnacion is accused of luring Ahmad to the scene under the guise of a marijuana deal, only for the group to ambush and rob him.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of violent crime in parts of New York City, with the Bronx in particular facing challenges around robberies, shootings, and other acts of violence. The brazen nature of the attack, which occurred in the early morning hours, has raised concerns about public safety in the area surrounding the New York Botanical Garden.

The details

According to the police complaint, Sanchez and Mateo were part of a four-person crew that confronted Ahmad as he sat in his BMW on Thwaites Place. Encarnacion had allegedly lured Ahmad to the location by asking him to sell her marijuana, but it was a setup for the robbery. When Ahmad tried to drive away, Sanchez shot and killed him. The suspects then fled with Ahmad's gold chain and an undetermined amount of cash. Encarnacion is accused of callously returning to her apartment after the shooting.

  • The incident occurred around 12:20 a.m. on February 13, 2026.
  • Sanchez, Mateo, and Encarnacion were arrested on warrants on Friday, February 21, 2026.
  • The three suspects are due back in court on Thursday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Darlin Sanchez

An 18-year-old who was allegedly the shooter in the incident.

Wanderlin Mateo

An 18-year-old who was also armed and part of the crew that confronted Ahmad.

Angelic Encarnacion

A 23-year-old who is accused of luring Ahmad to the scene under the guise of a marijuana deal, only for the group to ambush and rob him.

Amir Ahmad

A 26-year-old BMW driver who was fatally shot during the attempted robbery.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Darlin Sanchez and Wanderlin Mateo out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of violent crime and public safety in parts of New York City, particularly in the Bronx, and raises questions about how to address issues like armed robberies and shootings that put innocent lives at risk.