A tragic incident unfolded in an Upper Manhattan subway station, resulting in the arrest of a Washington Heights man on murder charges. Diego Figueroa-Hepner is accused of stabbing his neighbor, musician Johnny Medina, multiple times in the neck and body at the 175th Street station. Medina was a beloved figure in the community, living just across the street from Figueroa-Hepner.
The attack occurred as Medina, 40, prepared to board a northbound A train to catch a movie with his girlfriend, who lives in Yonkers. Figueroa-Hepner allegedly wore a balaclava mask during the incident. Medina succumbed to his injuries at Harlem Hospital, according to police.
Johnny Medina was an “amazing artist” and hip hop enthusiast who proudly represented Washington Heights. His paternal cousin, Maximo Reves, told The Post that Medina was all about spreading love and light through his music. Another cousin, Anthony Reves, remembered him as someone filled with infinite dreams, inspiring others to dream big along with him.
Maximo Reves also claimed that this fateful incident wasn’t the first time Medina and Figueroa-Hepner had clashed, suggesting that Figueroa-Hepner became obsessed with Medina and posted negative things about him on social media. Medina reportedly filed a police report to complain about Figueroa-Hepner’s actions about a month ago. A police source confirmed the existence of a previous dispute between the two men on social media but could not immediately confirm whether it was reported to law enforcement.
Figueroa-Hepner was arrested on Saturday and charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon. The tragic event has left Medina’s family devastated, as they mourn the loss of a vibrant presence in their community who inspired others through his music and love for life.
