SPRING VALLEY, NY โ In a disturbing early morning incident, Spring Valley Police responded to a report of a vehicle crash at approximately 1:45 a.m. on May 5, 2025, near 23 Ridge Avenue, only to uncover a far more serious crime involving kidnapping, assault, and attempted robbery.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a visibly injured and distressed female victim. Following a rapid investigation, authorities determined that the woman had been picked up earlier near Evergreen Supermarket by what she believed to be a taxi. During the ride, the driver began operating the vehicle erratically, refused to allow the passenger to exit, and escalated the situation into a violent criminal act.
The vehicle ultimately crashed into a fence, and the driver then attacked the victim with a screwdriver, attempting to rob her and preventing her from escaping. Despite the violent assault, the victim managed to flee the vehicle and call for help.
As the suspect attempted to flee the scene, he nearly collided head-on with another vehicle. Shortly thereafter, he was apprehended by the Ramapo Police Department.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Following a thorough investigation by the Spring Valley Detective Bureau, 22-year-old Kevin Mazariego-Figueroa of Ramapo, NY was formally charged on May 7, 2025, with multiple serious offenses, including:
Attempted Assault (1st and 2nd Degree)
Kidnapping
Robbery (1st Degree)
Strangulation (2nd Degree)
Criminal Possession of a Weapon (4th Degree)
Mazariego-Figueroa was arraigned by Judge Sweet and remanded to the Rockland County Jail.
Community Safety and Ongoing Investigation
The Spring Valley Police Department commended the bravery of the victim and the swift coordination with Ramapo Police in apprehending the suspect. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in ensuring public safety.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious when using ride services and to report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.