In a chilling case that has shocked New York City and ignited nationwide anger, a convicted rapist out on parole allegedly beat a 44-year-old mother nearly to death while she biked home from work. The suspect, Miguel Jiraud, 30, was arrested and charged with attempted murder following the savage May 16 attack on Diana Agudelo, a single mom of two from Astoria, Queens. The case has triggered widespread calls for urgent reform in the parole system and public safety measures.
What Happened on Randall’s Island?
The horrific attack occurred around 11:30 PM on May 16, 2025, as Diana Agudelo was riding her e-bike home along a bike path on Randall’s Island, a recreational area between Manhattan, the Bronx, and Queens. Known for its isolation at night, the area has faced previous criticism for being poorly lit and lacking regular patrols.
Agudelo, who had just finished a shift at the Museum of the City of New York, never made it home. Several hours later, a 911 call led police to her crumpled body in a darkened area off the trail.
The Night of the Assault
Shocking details emerged as it was revealed that the very man who called in the emergency—Miguel Jiraud—was also the one police believe committed the attack. He initially posed as a Good Samaritan, claiming to have stumbled upon the unconscious woman. But his alibi quickly unraveled under scrutiny.
Diana Agudelo’s Condition and Medical Fight
The brutal beating left Agudelo with life-threatening injuries: severe facial fractures, massive swelling in her brain, and other trauma consistent with being repeatedly struck in the head. She was rushed to the hospital where doctors had to perform two emergency surgeries, including a craniectomy to relieve brain pressure by removing part of her skull.
She remains in a medically induced coma. Doctors are monitoring her closely, and while her condition has stabilized, her recovery journey is expected to be long and uncertain.
The Impact on Her Family
Diana’s eldest daughter, 21-year-old Stephanie Rodas, has taken on the dual burden of caring for her younger sibling while staying by her mother’s side at the hospital. In an emotional statement, Stephanie described her mom as the “sweetest, most hardworking person” who did everything to support her children. She took her final college exams from the hospital room, determined to make her mother proud.
Who is Miguel Jiraud?
Miguel Jiraud is no stranger to the criminal justice system. At just 16 years old, he was convicted of the brutal 2011 rape of a 28-year-old woman in the Bronx. Sentenced to 12 years, Jiraud was released on parole in August 2024. He was staying at a homeless shelter on Randall’s Island and was required to wear an ankle monitor as part of his supervised release.
Jiraud’s Actions and Arrest
Despite his history, Jiraud managed to approach Agudelo that night, allegedly attacking her and fleeing with her e-bike. His ankle monitor was later used to map his movements, showing him retracing the scene and even appearing to ride the stolen bike into the Bronx before dumping it in the East River.
Police confronted Jiraud with the GPS data, leading to his arrest. He was arraigned and charged with attempted murder, assault, and related offenses.
The Legal Fallout
The case is now in the hands of prosecutors. Jiraud has been denied bail due to the severity of the charges and his criminal past. The DA’s office is aggressively pursuing the case, citing the brutal nature of the crime and Jiraud’s breach of parole conditions.
Statements from Law Enforcement
NYPD officials described the attack as one of the most heinous they’ve seen in recent years. The department is facing mounting pressure to increase patrols in known vulnerable areas like Randall’s Island, especially at night. They have also launched a review into how Jiraud’s parole was supervised.
Public and Political Reaction
The community response has been swift and emotional. City leaders and activists are demanding a thorough overhaul of how violent parolees are monitored. The fact that Jiraud, a known sexual predator, was free to roam with limited restrictions has become a lightning rod for criticism.
Community Safety on Randall’s Island
Randall’s Island has long been seen as a recreational gem, but nighttime isolation and lack of infrastructure have made it a hotspot for crime. Locals are calling for increased surveillance, emergency call boxes, and better lighting across pathways.
Advocacy and Fundraising Efforts
A GoFundMe campaign launched by Agudelo’s family has raised thousands to help cover her mounting medical bills and long-term rehabilitation. Community organizations are also rallying to provide trauma counseling and support services to her children.
A Broader Conversation on Parole and Justice
This case has reopened debate on criminal justice reforms. Critics argue that parole systems often fail to adequately supervise violent offenders. Advocates are calling for risk-based monitoring, better reintegration support, and more accountability from parole boards.
Conclusion
The savage attack on Diana Agudelo by a paroled rapist has not only devastated a family but also exposed serious flaws in New York’s justice system. As the city reels from this tragedy, calls for justice, reform, and accountability continue to grow louder.
FAQs
- Who is Miguel Jiraud and what is his criminal history?
He is a convicted rapist who served 12 years for a 2011 Bronx assault and was out on parole at the time of the recent attack. - What injuries did Diana Agudelo suffer?
She sustained multiple skull fractures, brain swelling, and remains in a medically induced coma after two emergency surgeries. - How was Jiraud identified as the attacker?
GPS data from his ankle monitor placed him at the crime scene and showed him riding the victim’s stolen bike. - What are the charges against him now?
He is charged with attempted murder, assault, and other felonies, and is currently being held without bail. - How is the public responding to this case?
Outrage has spread across NYC, with calls for parole system reform and improved safety measures on public paths.
