Knife-wielding man attacks worker in Bronx bodega: video
THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) --- A man is accused of attacking a bodega worker with a knife in the Bronx Monday night, according to police and United Bodegas of America.
Tyrell Mata, 29, allegedly assaulted the 22-year-old worker in 3J’s Deli Grocery at 1098 Anderson Ave. at around 7:30 p.m., according to the NYPD.
The victim suffered a wound to the left hand and refused medical treatment at the scene, police said.
Video of the incident showed an armed man dressed in a black jacket and white hat repeatedly lunge over the counter and threaten the worker with a knife, according to the footage from United Bodegas of America.
When the worker came out from behind the counter with a bat, the suspect ran off, the video showed.
Mata was arrested and charged with assault, criminal possession of a weapon and menacing, police said. His arraignment was pending Tuesday.
“Our bodega workers are being terrorized. These men and women show up every day to serve their communities, not to be attacked or killed. The city must do more—panic buttons, patrols, and real prosecution. We're not asking for favors, we’re demanding protection,” said Radahmes Rodríguez, president of UBA.
Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She has been with PIX11 News for two years. See more of her work here.