Small shops across Brooklyn were hit by a knifepoint robbery spree in mid-April, leaving employees badly shaken, though not physically hurt. Detectives say the suspect followed a consistent pattern: he demanded cash, then slipped behind counters and held workers at knifepoint, hitting businesses in multiple neighborhoods. The incidents have merchants on edge while investigators comb through surveillance footage and witness tips.
Police say the first reported incident came at a Williamsburg smoke shop, when a man entered 325 Graham Ave around 11:15 p.m. on April 18 and later returned with a knife, taking roughly $900 from behind the counter, according to News 12 Brooklyn. In a similar hit, authorities say the suspect threatened a 61-year-old employee at a Park Slope deli and took about $380. Business listings also show a vapor and smoke retailer operating at 325 Graham Ave; see the local listing for Vapor & Smoke Shop.
Boerum Hill Bodega Hit for Thousands
About a week after the Williamsburg robbery, police say the same man walked into Apple Gourmet Farm in Boerum Hill and left with about $6,000. "The NYPD provided footage of the man taken inside 404 Atlantic Ave," and "the man is seen dressed in black clothing, wearing glasses, a black face mask and white shoes," according to News 12 Brooklyn. New York business filings list Apple Gourmet Farm at 404 Atlantic Ave, matching the address investigators have cited; see the company record at Mahant 404 Inc.
Police Release Footage, Ask for Tips
Authorities say no one was physically injured in the robberies, and detectives are reviewing surveillance from each scene to identify the suspect. The NYPD is asking anyone with information or relevant video to contact its Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS. The hotline is also listed on city public-safety pages from the NYC Mayor's Office. Investigators are urging neighbors to save door-cam and phone footage with clear timestamps and share it with detectives, and to let police handle any potential encounters with the suspect.
