New York, US: A peaceful afternoon in East New York, Brooklyn was shattered on Friday when a beloved deli worker was fatally stabbed in a shocking and unprovoked attack at the NY Deli & Mini Market Corp. on the corner of Hegeman Avenue and Van Siclen Avenue. The assailant, described by police as an “agitated maniac,” fled the scene, sparking a citywide manhunt and reigniting concerns over safety in New York’s essential neighborhood stores.
Tragedy Unfolds in Broad Daylight
The incident occurred just after 3 p.m., according to witnesses and police accounts. The attacker, described as a man with a dark complexion, braided hair, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing near 190 pounds, initially entered the deli in a visibly disturbed state, shouting for no clear reason. Staff—including the victim, later identified by community members as 33-year-old Diego Sandoval-Nava—asked him to leave, but he returned minutes later, pushing to get behind the counter.
A tense confrontation ensued when Sandoval-Nava attempted to keep the suspect away from the private area of the deli. Without warning, the assailant pulled out a knife and attacked, stabbing Sandoval-Nava multiple times in the stomach and torso. The violent act sent shockwaves through the busy street, leaving customers and co-workers in terrorized disbelief. Despite rapid response from emergency services and swift transport to Brookdale Hospital, Sandoval-Nava succumbed to his injuries.
Grief Echoes Through the Community
Word of the tragedy spread quickly, devastating friends, family, and regular customers who considered Sandoval-Nava more than just a deli worker. “He would help other people outside, making sure they were doing OK, feeding them if they needed food,” said Andy, a friend and neighbor. Sandoval-Nava, a father of two, had moved to the U.S. from Mexico in hopes of building a better life. His home was reportedly just above the deli, and he was known for his kindness and community spirit.
Residents and nearby workers gathered at the scene, many openly weeping. “This was our neighborhood store. Kids come here, elderly come here. Now people are fearful,” said a long-time customer.
A Disturbing Motive, Ongoing Hunt for Attacker
Law enforcement sources revealed that the initial dispute may have erupted because the suspect was denied a request to buy a single loose cigarette—a “Lucy”—which is illegal to sell individually in New York City. It was this minor refusal that apparently sparked the suspect’s rage, escalating to lethal violence.
Police confirmed that the suspect fled the scene immediately after the stabbing and, as of Friday night, no arrests had been made. The NYPD assured the community that detectives are “on his heels” and promised a full investigation. Surveillance footage from the business and nearby establishments is being reviewed, and officers canvassed the area throughout the evening.
Advocates from the United Bodegas of America and local leaders offered condolences and called for increased protection for workers who, they argue, have grown more vulnerable in the wake of escalating citywide crime. “It’s crazy. What is going on with some people? We don’t understand how you can take someone’s life over something so minor,” said one spokesperson, echoing the community’s collective disbelief.
A Heartbroken Neighborhood Waits for Justice
The fatal attack has left many in East New York shaken and demanding action to curb the rising tide of violence targeting retail and service staff. As police continue their search for the suspect, supporters are rallying to assist Sandoval-Nava’s family, including efforts to contact relatives in Mexico for support and memorial arrangements.
The NY Deli & Mini Market Corp. remained closed Saturday as tributes of flowers and handwritten notes piled up outside. Residents and activists hope that swift justice will be served—and that renewed attention will lead to stronger safety measures for frontline workers citywide.
Anyone with information regarding the suspect or the incident is urged to contact the NYPD immediately.
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