A one-day robbery spree rattled southern Queens on Thursday, leaving small business owners shaken and detectives hunting for a single suspect they say hit multiple blocks in quick succession. Police say six separate incidents targeted a restaurant and two delis and added up to about $5,900 in stolen cash and property. The cases were reported primarily in South Ozone Park and South Richmond Hill, with another robbery in Jamaica.
What police say
According to the NYPD, the same unknown man is believed to be behind all six incidents, and in four of them he allegedly demanded money at gunpoint. Investigators have released surveillance images and are asking the public to help identify him. Those details were reported by PIX11.
Where it happened
Most of the robberies unfolded in the NYPD's 106th Precinct, which covers South Ozone Park and parts of South Richmond Hill. Local reports of two overnight armed robberies on Liberty Avenue and Lefferts Boulevard say the suspect displayed a firearm and, in at least one case, took off on a bicycle. The precinct's public profile helps explain why detectives are zeroing in on those corridors, according to the NYPD and Shore News Network.
What was taken
Police told reporters the robberies brought in roughly $5,900 in cash for the suspect and also involved other thefts. Investigators say a two-wheeled vehicle was taken from a 40-year-old man and a necklace was stolen from a 55-year-old. In several of the incidents, detectives say the man wrapped things up by hopping on a bicycle and riding away. Those figures and descriptions were included in reporting by PIX11.
How to report tips
The NYPD is urging anyone with information, video, or door-cam footage to share tips through the department's Crime Stoppers portal or by calling 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA. Callers can remain anonymous. More information is available via Crime Stoppers.
Local context
Business owners along Liberty Avenue say recent stickups and purse-snatching incidents have turned late-night shifts into something of a gamble, with workers feeling exposed as they close up shop. Hoodline previously covered a Liberty Avenue armed robbery that led to an NYPD Crime Stoppers appeal, highlighting how heavily detectives rely on neighborhood video and community tips. Police say they will keep reviewing surveillance footage and following up on leads as the investigation moves forward.
