COLUMBIA, Pa. — A 17-year-old Columbia resident has been charged in connection with a fatal stabbing that occurred earlier this month in the borough, according to the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office.

Joshua D. Flores was taken into custody Sunday evening and is facing charges of criminal homicide, aggravated assault, and tampering with evidence in the death of Anthony Stoy-Velazquez, 26.

The incident occurred during the early morning hours of July 8 in the 200 block of Linden Street. Authorities say Stoy-Velazquez suffered a single stab wound to the chest during a confrontation and was later pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts by first responders.

Investigators with Columbia Borough Police and Lancaster County Detectives spent several weeks gathering evidence before making the arrest. District Attorney Heather Adams praised the investigation, noting that certain details were withheld from the public to protect the integrity of the case while authorities worked to safely apprehend the suspect.

According to prosecutors, multiple tips from community members helped identify Flores as the alleged assailant. Investigators also reviewed surveillance footage from several nearby homes and businesses, which reportedly captured portions of the confrontation.

Court documents indicate that an eyewitness told police the victim and suspect became involved in a verbal altercation shortly after 12:30 a.m. The confrontation allegedly escalated into a physical encounter before the stabbing occurred.

Stoy-Velazquez was found face down in the street when officers arrived. The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office later confirmed his death.

Flores was denied bail and is currently being held at the Lancaster County Youth Intervention Center pending further court proceedings.

As the case moves through the legal system, authorities remind the public that criminal charges are allegations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

The Columbia Chronicle will continue to follow this case and provide updates as additional information becomes available.