UPDATE: A Bronx murder suspect, Kyron Randall, has died from an apparent allergic reaction while incarcerated at Rikers Island, marking a grim milestone as the 15th inmate to perish at the facility in 2025. This tragic incident occurred at approximately 12:10 p.m. on December 21, while Randall was held at the George R. Vierno Center.
Authorities report that Randall fell ill and was provided medical assistance before being rushed to Elmhurst Hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his condition shortly before 1 a.m. on December 22. Correction Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie has confirmed that an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death will take place, offering condolences to Randall’s family.
Randall, aged 33, was facing serious charges of murder stemming from an alleged attack on a 56-year-old man in a Morrisania apartment on June 30, 2023. The victim suffered severe injuries, including multiple bone fractures, and later died after slipping into a coma at Lincoln Hospital.
Court documents reveal that Randall’s trial had been scheduled for February 2025, but a series of delays pushed back proceedings, with the next conference set for February 3, 2026. Randall spent nearly two years in Department of Corrections custody awaiting trial.
This incident amplifies concerns surrounding Rikers Island, which is currently under federal receivership and has faced intense scrutiny over inmate safety. This year alone, the detention center has recorded the highest number of inmate deaths since 2022, when 19 deaths were reported.
In light of this tragedy, criminal justice advocates are calling for immediate action. Darren Mack, Co-Director of Freedom Agenda, expressed deep concern, stating, “We know very clearly what we need from our incoming mayor – urgent action to stop sending people to this death camp.”
Incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani has committed to closing Rikers by 2027, despite ongoing debates about the facility’s future and increasing jail populations. During a recent event at Columbia University, Mamdani pledged to prioritize reducing the jail population while ensuring community safety.
As the investigation into Randall’s death unfolds, the Department of Corrections has reported the incident to various oversight agencies, including the federal monitor for Rikers Island, Steve Martin, and the state Attorney General’s office.
The death of Kyron Randall serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform within the correctional system. With the focus on ensuring inmate safety and upholding justice, the community and advocates alike await the actions of the new administration.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
