A man from Washington Heights is facing murder charges after allegedly fatally stabbing his neighbor, a local musician, inside a subway station in Upper Manhattan. Diego Figueroa-Hepner, 24, is accused of attacking Johnny Medina, 40, at the 175th Street subway station, inflicting multiple stab wounds to Medina’s neck and torso.
The incident occurred as Medina was preparing to board a northbound A train to meet his girlfriend in Yonkers. Wearing a balaclava mask, Figueroa-Hepner allegedly ambushed Medina in the station. Medina was rushed to Harlem Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Medina, known by his stage name “J McFly,” was a well-known hip hop artist in Washington Heights. His family described him as a vibrant and inspiring figure in the community. “He was an amazing artist, hip hop artist, lifelong hip hop fan – he was all about spreading love and light through his music…and he was very proud to represent Washington Heights,” said Maximo Reves, Medina’s cousin.
Another cousin, Anthony Reves, shared similar sentiments, highlighting Medina’s impact on their family. “He was filled with infinite dreams and inspired us to dream big along with him. It’s tragic his life ended at this point of his journey. His light will inspire our family forever,” Anthony said.
The stabbing has shocked the community, particularly given the history between the two men. According to Maximo, Figueroa-Hepner had become obsessed with Medina, posting negative comments about him on social media. Medina had reportedly filed a police report about Figueroa-Hepner’s behavior approximately a month before the fatal encounter.
A police source confirmed that there had been a prior dispute between the two men on social media but could not immediately verify if the dispute had been formally reported to law enforcement. Following the attack, Figueroa-Hepner was arrested and charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.
The tragic death of Johnny Medina, a lifelong resident of Washington Heights, has left a void in the local community. His family and friends mourn the loss of a talented artist whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence. As the legal process unfolds, the community grapples with the devastating impact of the crime and the loss of a beloved figure.
