Investigation Underway After Shooting in Police Transport Van

Two police officers from Mount Vernon are presently on modified duty following an incident involving an alleged child sex offender who faces new assault charges, stemming from an unexplained shooting in a prison escort van.

Authorities are currently investigating how 32-year-old Louie Soto, an inmate from the Bronx, managed to smuggle a handgun and cocaine into the police van. He is suspected of shooting another inmate in the leg, though the victim’s identity remains unknown. Thankfully, reports indicate that he is expected to survive.

As the investigation proceeds, the two officers involved have been taken off street duty.

Soto had been arrested just a day prior on multiple charges, including sexual abuse of a minor, robbery, and forcible touching. He was being transported to Westchester County Jail in Valhalla along with other inmates when the shooting occurred.

Police were alerted after shots were fired within the van, prompting an immediate response. Officers reported hearing a single gunshot followed by the sound of an inmate being shot, as detailed by Mount Vernon Police Chief Marcel Orifices.

Chief Orifices emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is a very serious incident and we take this very seriously.” Following the incident, Soto has been charged additionally with assault and illegal possession of a weapon. He remains in custody awaiting arraignment.

City officials from Mount Vernon have not yet commented, but it has been reported that local police are collaborating with the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office on this case.