16-year old Cory Dunton is accused of firing eight shots at the Midtown Manhattan rink on Nov. 9th.
Police say he tried to steal a coat from 20-year old Javier Contreras.
When that failed, police say he began shooting, hitting Contreras in the arm. An innocent bystander, 14-year old Adonis Mera, was struck in the back.
"I did not aim for Adonis. ... I never thought I'd see this day where my life is shattered and I have shattered a young boy's life as well," Dunton said in a handwritten statement following his arrest, according to prosecutors.
He added: "Some or most people might hate me for what I have done. I hate myself as well."
Dunton is charged as an adult with attempted murder, assault, reckless endangerment and criminal possession of a weapon.
"Because of a single gun fired in a public park, an innocent 14-year-old boy may never walk again," said Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance, Jr. "With several gunshots, Cory Dunton is accused of shattering the peace and calm of an annual holiday activity in one of our city's great public venues."
Investigators said Dunton tried to steal the popular "Biggie" Marmot Mammoth parka, which retails for about $700.
"The shooter calls him over to the side," NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly said. "He actually clears people away from the line of fire, and he fires a total of eight shots at the individual."
Sources said one of Dunton's Facebook posts while police were at his door waiting to arrest him read, "feds at my door im goin out with a bang!!!!!!! Take my soul."
(Some information from the Associated Press)
