October 10, 2025 WILLIAMSBRIDGE, The Bronx—The quiet of a Williamsbridge apartment building was shattered late Thursday night as a routine arrest turned into a hail of bullets, leaving an 18-year-old robbery suspect critically injured. The drama unfolded after a shocking tip-off that brought police to the scene: the suspect's own father.

Police were actively searching for Antonio Morales after his father reported that the teen had allegedly robbed both his mother and older brother at gunpoint on Van Nest Avenue just an hour earlier.

The Chaotic Takedown: A Struggle, a Fall, and a Fateful Shot

The pursuit led officers and Morales's father to an apartment building on East Gun Hill Road. As officers tried to contain Morales inside, a stunning moment occurred: the suspect, refusing to surrender, reportedly fired three shots near a window before making a desperate dash for the door.

What happened next was captured by NYPD Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera:

"The suspect fled through the open door, where he encountered officers positioned outside the door. A struggle ensued as officers attempted to take him into custody. One officer fell backwards and hit his head... An officer then discharged her firearm, striking the perpetrator twice, once in the lower back and once in the right arm."

The suspect, Morales, was hit in the lower back and the right arm around 10:20 p.m. A loaded handgun was later recovered from a bag inside the apartment, which police allege Morales fired before attempting his escape.

Teen Suspect's "Significant" History Revealed

While charges are still pending against Morales, police sources have told reporters the 18-year-old has a "significant violent criminal history."

Morales is currently hospitalized with critical injuries. The sergeant who fell during the struggle was treated for a head injury and is expected to make a full recovery.

The scene remained active and under investigation well into the early hours of Friday morning. This high-stakes incident highlights the dangers faced by officers responding to domestic violence calls involving armed suspects—especially those with a reported history of violence.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.