Police on Manhunt for Killers Who Murdered Teens, $5,000 Reward For Info

The Suffolk County Police Department is on a manhunt to find whoever is behind the murders of two teenage girls in Brentwood on Tuesday.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for the first tip that leads to the arrest of the person or people responsible for the murders of Nisa Mickens, 15, and Kayla Cuevas, 16. Information can be provided anonymously by calling 1-800-220-TIPS.

"We need your help," Suffolk County Police Commissioner Tim Sini said Thursday, according to an ABC 7 report. "This an act of savagery in our community and we need to work together to bring the perpetrators to justice."

Police believe Mickens and Cuevas were attacked, possibly by gang members, as they walked back to Cuevas' home Tuesday night.

Mickens found dead on Stahley Street, near Loretta Park Elementary School, with lacerations and head trauma Tuesday at about 8:36 p.m, a before her 16th birthday. Cuevas' body was found Wednesday in a nearby wooded area.

The Brentwood School District will hold a candlelight vigil on Friday in honor of the two girls, who attended the Ross Center of Brentwood High School.

The vigil will be held at the school's Frank A. Mauro football stadium starting at 6 p.m. The school district asks that those attending the vigil wear green and white in support. Suffolk County Police officials as well as state and local legislators are expected to attend.

In addition, the district announced they are working with police as well as taking steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the students.

"The Suffolk County Police Department is giving the investigation its top priority and the district if fully cooperating with the police investigation," Superintendent Levi McIntyre said in a letter.

According to McIntyre, police have increased their presence at the school and surrounding area, the school will be using metal detectors and handheld wands to ensure no weapons are brought inside the buildings, and counselors are available for grief and bereavement counseling.

"The next few weeks will be a difficult period for all of us," the letter reads. "Although individual response to this news maybe different, please know that the district stands unified in its efforts to provide a nurturing and safe environment for all our students."

A community forum will also be scheduled to allow parents and community members to give feedback to school officials.