A crazed lover allegedly tried to choke his girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend after breaking into his Elizabeth Street residence in Rye on Sunday, police said.
The unidentified homeowner, 61, told Rye police he was sleeping in his bed when someone — later identified as Guillermo Martinez-Echeverria — allegedly entered his home at roughly 11:30 p.m. Hearing noise, the victim got out of bed to check on the commotion and was quickly confronted by Martinez-Echeverria, 30, near the living room area of the home, according to police.
The suspect repeatedly asked the homeowner, “Where is she?” before grabbing him with both hands by the throat and choking him.
After a brief tussle, the victim was able to pry himself free, police said, before the intruder ran off.
Authorities arrived at the home on Sunday but found no trace of the suspect. The homeowner knew him to be the current boyfriend of his former girlfriend — but he couldn’t remember his name, according to police.
The 61-year-old later identified Martinez-Echeverria, of Rye Brook, after police showed him an array of photos.
Rye police located the suspect on Tuesday and arrested him at around 1 p.m.
Photo courtesy Rye PD
Martinez-Echeverria is being charged with burglary, criminal obstruction of breathing, and harassment. During his arraignment, an order of protection was issued for the victim.
He was released and is due back in Rye City Court on Dec. 9.
