Federal prosecutors say two men allegedly tracked and killed their former friend after becoming jealous of the expensive diamond jewelry he displayed on social media.
Authorities identified the suspects as 25-year-old Welfy Espinal and 27-year-old Lenyn Toribio. They are accused of using a GPS tracker to monitor 24-year-old Bronx resident Jeremy Ortega before attacking him in April 2025.
According to investigators, the suspects, who were once friends with Ortega, followed his movements and ambushed him outside his family home.
Ortega was reportedly carrying a luxury bag containing jewelry when he was attacked. He was shot and killed in front of his mother, who allegedly begged the attackers to spare his life.
Prosecutors said the suspects escaped using a stolen license plate in an attempt to avoid being identified.
Espinal was later arrested in New Jersey, while Toribio remains wanted by authorities.
Both suspects face federal charges connected to interstate stalking resulting in death and conspiracy.
Ortega’s family described him as a hardworking and kind person who was betrayed by people he trusted.
