UPDATE: The murder trial for Jenndry Samuel Rodriguez Contreras, a 24-year-old York man accused of a deadly shooting during a drug deal, has been postponed until December 15, 2023. The trial was originally set to begin next Monday but was delayed at the request of the defense.
On October 7, 2022, Rodriguez Contreras allegedly opened fire at the rear of 199 S. Wyoming St. in Hazleton, resulting in the death of Felix Dini, 22, and the wounding of Rochell Angel “Chi-Chi” Reyes-Cruz, 23. Rodriguez Contreras faces serious charges including murder, attempted murder, and aggravated assault.
Defense attorney James Scanlon filed a motion for a continuance because he was engaged in another trial concerning a separate murder case. This case involved Frangel Garcia Andujar, charged with shooting five individuals at an underage drinking party in Hazleton, which ended in a mistrial on Tuesday after a juror was photographed in court.
Luzerne County Judge David W. Lupas granted the defense’s request, pushing Rodriguez Contreras’ trial back to December. This delay adds to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the case, as Rodriguez Contreras is also an undocumented immigrant wanted for murder in the Dominican Republic.
This case is particularly significant as Rodriguez Contreras is the third individual connected to the shooting. Previous trials for Keliana Lineth Moronta Jimenez and her boyfriend Wellington Javier Marte Ramirez ended in acquittals. Rodriguez Contreras remains in custody at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility without bail, awaiting his new trial date.
The implications of this trial extend beyond the courtroom, touching on issues of immigration, public safety, and the impact of gang-related violence in local communities. As the case develops, many are watching closely for updates on the legal proceedings and the broader societal implications.
As December approaches, the community in Hazleton is left to grapple with the fallout from this tragic incident and the ongoing legal battle that continues to unfold. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
