A 14-year-old boy was robbed in broad daylight on Sunday, May 24, in front of 1021 Longfellow Avenue in the Bronx, according to police. Investigators say three unidentified males approached the teen just before noon; one of them displayed a firearm while the other two took the boy's sneakers and backpack. The group then ran off northbound on Longfellow Avenue toward East 165th Street.
Detectives have released surveillance stills and a "WANTED FOR A ROBBERY" bulletin as they work to put names to the faces. According to NYPD Crime Stoppers, the alert includes images of two individuals and notes that a third suspect displayed a firearm during the stickup. Tips that lead to an arrest and indictment may be eligible for a reward of up to $3,500.
How to submit tips
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-577-TIPS, submitting an anonymous internet tip, or using the Crime Stoppers mobile app. According to the NYPD's Crime Stoppers page, tips can be submitted anonymously, and callers who provide information that leads to an arrest and indictment may qualify for a reward. The program is administered by the New York City Police Foundation and has a long-running history of offering rewards for qualifying tips.
What detectives say
Investigators say the encounter unfolded around midday and describe the suspects in the bulletin only as three unidentified males who took off on foot after the theft. Police released still images of two of the suspects in hopes that neighbors' phone or doorbell cameras may have captured something that can help identify them. Authorities have not announced any arrests in the case.
Neighborhood context
The appeal for tips comes as the Longwood area has seen several daytime street robberies this spring, and transit-area thefts have also drawn renewed attention. For background on a recent nearby incident, see this report on a brazen 6 train platform robbery.
Safety and what to share
Police are reminding residents not to confront anyone they suspect may be involved and instead to preserve any potential evidence, such as photos or video, before sharing it with investigators. The NYPD's Crime Stoppers page outlines how to upload video, make anonymous calls, or use the mobile app to pass along information that could help the investigation. If you have details, the hotline and online portal are the official ways to report them.
