A night that began with a ride from Queens ended in a violent struggle at Gilgo Beach and an attempted murder charge that is now moving through Suffolk County court.
Prosecutors say Ruben Guanipa Ramirez, 26, picked up an acquaintance on February 28 and drove him from Queens to Baldwin, where the two spent time playing pool at Sport Billiard Pool Hall. From there, authorities allege the pair made stops at Jones Beach before continuing east to Gilgo Beach.
What happened next, according to investigators, unfolded quickly.
As the two walked back toward the vehicle, Ramirez allegedly came up behind the victim, covered his mouth with a cloth, and stabbed him in the side. Prosecutors say he then attempted to cut the victim’s throat, leading to a struggle.
The victim suffered multiple wounds, including defensive injuries to his hands, but managed to fight back and take control of the knife.
Both men returned to the vehicle, but the situation shifted again. Authorities say Ramirez got out of the car, and the victim drove off alone, eventually calling 911 and a friend for help. He made it back to Queens, where he was met by police and taken to a hospital for treatment.
The turning point in the case came hours later.
Ramirez was located walking along the Long Island Expressway in Nassau County and taken into custody. When investigators searched his vehicle, they say they found three knives, one appearing to have blood on it, along with rope, duct tape, blankets, plastic drop cloths, gloves, a boxcutter, and a large wheeled bag.
On March 31, Ramirez was arraigned on charges including attempted murder and assault. A judge ordered him held on bail or bond while the case proceeds. If convicted on the top charge, he faces up to 25 years in prison.
The case is being prosecuted by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
Ramirez is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Photo: Google Maps.
