Bodega worker shot after trying to stop robber on Lower East Side, police say
A bodega worker was shot after he tried to stop a man from stealing from a Lower East Side store, the NYPD said.
Police responded just before 1:30 a.m. to Wholesome Organic Convenience, where a 25-year-old man was grazed. He was taken to the hospital in stable condition.
The United Bodegas of America is now announcing a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the shooter.
Spokesman Fernando Mateo called on city and state officials to take action to protect bodega employees.
"This young man was shot in the back simply because he tried to stop a crime. Bodega workers should not have to risk their lives every time they report to work," he said.
Police sources said they are looking for a man wearing a black shirt and pants with black and white shoes.
Anyone with any information is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). You can also submit a tip via their website or via DM on X, @NYPDTips. All calls are kept confidential.
