Teen Arrested In Brooklyn Mother’s Day Murder Of Drill Rapper: Police

BROOKLYN, NY— A 17-year-old suspect has been arrested in the fatal shooting of Brooklyn drill rapper Quah’mir Cruz, police said.

The teenager, whose name was withheld because he is a minor, was arrested Wednesday and charged with murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment in connection with Cruz’s death.

Police said the suspect shot Cruz, 18, on Blake Avenue near Mother Gaston Boulevard in Brownsville at about 3:05 p.m. on May 10.

Cruz, who performed under the name Boe Quahh, was shot in the chest outside the Van Dyke Houses, where he lived with his family.

His younger brother, Daiveon Cruz, 17, rushed outside after hearing the gunfire and found him wounded.

Emergency responders took Cruz to Brookdale University Hospital, where he died.

Who Was Quah’mir Cruz?

Cruz was known in Brooklyn’s drill music scene.

He released music videos including “Backdoor B’z,” “Top 4” and “OE Anthem,” which collectively received more than 125,000 views on YouTube.

Cruz worked two jobs, including construction work and a position at the Van Dyke Community Center, where he connected with young people through an anti-violence program.

What Did His Family Say About His Life?

At a vigil two days after the shooting, Cruz’s family described him as a hardworking young man focused on building a future.

“My heart is broken into pieces,” Danielle Cruz, his mother, said. “I miss him so much. I feel like a piece of me is gone.”

Cruz’s stepfather said his son talked endlessly about buying a mansion for the family.

Cruz worked at the Van Dyke Community Center, operated by CAMBA, where staff members said he encouraged young people to avoid violence and stay focused on their goals.

Valerie Barton-Richardson, president and CEO of CAMBA, said Cruz had recently earned his OSHA safety-training certificate and was working with staff to improve his résumé before his death.

“He was working every day to make sure that didn’t happen,” Barton-Richardson said, referring to his desire not to become “lost on the streets.”

Police have not disclosed what led to the shooting or whether Cruz’s music career played any role.

The investigation remains ongoing.