Bronx residents call for more streetlights, security cameras after reported rape

BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) – Reported rape cases in the Bronx’s 43rd precinct are down in 2024, 32 so far this year compared to 39 last year.  

Parkchester residents, however, say one of their biggest concerns is that there aren’t enough streetlights and a lack of security cameras.  An issue they say must be addressed immediately is progressively getting worse. 

Parts of Virginia Avenue in the Parkchester section of the Bronx look utterly dark at night. 

“I wouldn’t walk around here alone. It is scary; they definitely have to be more lights,” said Jayliana. It's the Reason she chooses to walk with her boyfriend.

It was along this same street that police say a 26-year-old female was punched and raped early Wednesday morning.

A new surveillance video obtained by PIX11 News Friday evening shows the suspect following the victim up to the corner of Virginia and Wood Avenue and dragging her back to this ramp of the Parkchester South condominium complex.   

“It is not just saying it is too close to home; it is home,” said resident Vaculik.

Authorities arrested and charged 21-year-old Gregory Williams. But neighbors say that even though the alleged rapist was caught,  the issue that makes them feel unsafe remains.

“There was a home invasion, right, a woman’s door was kicking here on McGraw back in August. Things are escalated in our property.” Said resident Peter Hamilton.

The 43rd Precinct patrols this neighborhood, but the privately owned housing complex, which has about 1,200 units, is patrolled by the Parkchester Department of Public Safety. We contacted the board, and they said, “We are working with agencies such as the DOT to solve these issues.”

“East Tremont Avenue, we have been asking for cameras. If you walk down on Metropolitan Avenue right in front of Parkchester police station, there are some lightings that is still not fixed,” added Hamilton.

PIX11 News also obtained a video from a resident of this same condo development. Her front door ring camera captured a man wandering around in one of the hallways with his pants down.

“Parkchester used to be one of the safest places in the Bronx, now you see a lot of things, a lot of also mentally ill people, homeless,” stated resident Yocanda.

Those who live in this area say they want to see improvements soon before another tragedy strikes again.

“More lighting will be appreciated on the sidewalks and top of our buildings, so we know we are getting home safely and even some additional cameras,” added Vaculik.

“Ironically, the DOT sent the same day we found about the rape on this street they sent a confirmation that they are going to upgrade the lighting,” stated Hamilton.

PIX11 contacted the Department of Transportation and asked about the steps they have or will take to make this neighborhood safer. We are awaiting a response.