Danbury Police Arrest 2 After Fatal Skate Park Stabbing

DANBURY, CT — Police have arrested two people in connection with a fatal stabbing at a Danbury skate park earlier this month and said more arrests are expected.

Willy Placencia, 21, of Danbury, was found severely injured March 18 at the Danbury Skate Park. He had multiple stab wounds and was taken to Danbury Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

"We are pleased to announce that witness interviews, multiple anonymous tips and the steadfast efforts of the involved investigators lead to the identity of several suspects involved in the homicide," Det. Sgt. Adam Marcus said Friday.

James Lema-Zaruma, 20, of Danbury, was charged with first-degree criminal liability to commit assault. His bail was set at $10,000. An unnamed 16-year-old was also arrested and charged with first-degree manslaughter, among other crimes. He remained in custody.

Marcus said that the arrest of "several more" suspects is anticipated "within the near future."

The 16-year-old was also charged with first-degree conspiracy to commit manslaughter, first-degree assault, first-degree conspiracy to commit assault, second-degree conspiracy to commit assault, and second-degree breach of peace.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact the Danbury Police Department’s Detective Division at 203-797-4662. People can also call the department's anonymous TIPS Line at 203-790-8477.