Mayor Zohran Mamdani faces backlash over condolences to accused killer

Zohran Mamdani New York City Department of Correction public controversy Bronx robbery

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing significant public backlash after offering condolences on social media for the death of Luis Alberto Lopez Castillo, a man accused of murdering a 26-year-old autistic man in the Bronx.

Castillo died on a Wednesday evening after being found in medical distress at Queens Criminal Court. Department of Correction staff performed CPR before he was transported to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation by the Department of Correction.

Mamdani’s post, which stated, “I extend my condolences to his family,” drew criticism from social media users who noted the mayor did not mention the alleged victim, Ron Marte. Critics argued the mayor appeared to prioritize the feelings of defendants over the victims of alleged crimes. This incident follows a similar controversy involving the mayor’s remarks regarding the death of another accused killer at Rikers Island last month.