A 24-year-old Spring Valley man was arrested Thursday following an incident in which a 9-year-old boy was struck by a projectile believed to have been fired from a BB gun while walking along Hoyt Street in Spring Valley.

According to the Spring Valley Police Department, officers responded Wednesday, October 14, to the area of Hoffman Street and Hoyt Street after receiving a report of a suspicious incident involving a child.

Police said the boy was walking past an occupied vehicle on Hoyt Street when he heard a loud noise and suddenly felt pain near his left hip.

The child returned home and informed his parents, who contacted Chaverim of Rockland for assistance. Upon learning the circumstances of the incident, Chaverim immediately notified the Spring Valley Police Department.

Hatzoloh EMS responded to evaluate the boy and determined that his injuries were not life-threatening.

Spring Valley Police detectives launched an investigation, working with Chaverim of Rockland to identify and locate the vehicle involved.

On Thursday, October 15, the suspect vehicle and all individuals who had been inside at the time of the incident were located with assistance from Chaverim volunteers. All occupants were transported to Spring Valley Police headquarters for further questioning.

Following the investigation, police arrested Marco J. Guanoquiza-Caillagua, 24, of Spring Valley.

He was charged with second-degree assault, two counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child.

The Spring Valley Police Department publicly thanked Chaverim of Rockland for their assistance in the investigation.

Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact Spring Valley Police at 845-356-7400 or email [email protected].

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)