Charges Filed in 2023 Shooting of 16-Year-Old in Queens

Prosecutors have announced charges against four young men linked to the Gangbang gang for their alleged involvement in the tragic shooting of 16-year-old Claudia Quayty during a gang confrontation in Queens three years ago.

The suspects—Messiah Randall and Jomar Point du Jour, both 19, Nicholson Pierimas, 20, and Zaire Lawrie, 21—have been charged with murder, conspiracy, and weapons possession in relation to the May 10, 2023 incident. Quayty was shot in St. Albans, as reported by the DA’s office.

On that fateful night, Claudia was hanging out with friends, one of whom had intended to confront another teenager at Locust Manor Park, prosecutors indicated.

As Claudia’s group, which reportedly included members of the rival Top Op gang, attempted to leave in a blue Hyundai Venue, they were approached by the four accused, according to the prosecutor’s office.

Claudia was sitting in the back seat when Randall and Pierimas allegedly fired multiple shots at the vehicle.

In a heartbreaking outcome, Quayty, a high school student aspiring to become a nurse, was shot in the head and placed on life support until she sadly succumbed to her injuries several days later.

Her father, Albert Kuaty, 65, expressed his fears about the dangers of being out late, noting, “I always told her I didn’t want her to go out. It’s not too late, but still.” His frustration reflects a broader concern about escalating violence among youth.

Claudia was one of six siblings and was described as a loving person by her father. Her aunt, Benita Borty, emphasized her caring nature and willingness to help others.

“In my free time, I enjoyed running the track, dancing, styling my hair, and spending time with my family and friends,” Claudia wrote on her GoFundMe page.

Queens Supreme Court Judge Bruna Dibiase has ordered all four suspects to be held without bail. Meanwhile, Point du Jour is already in custody for an unrelated case and will face arraignment later.

If found guilty, the four could face a minimum sentence of 25 years in prison, despite being juveniles at the time of the shooting.

Queens Prosecutor Melinda Katz condemned the violent behavior, stating, “As alleged, the four defendants worked together to plan and carry out the murder of a suspected gang rival and instead shot and killed 16-year-old Claudia Quayty.” She added, “We will hold the defendants accountable for this senseless tragedy and continue to work with law enforcement to dismantle gangs in this area.”