NEW YORK, NY – An innocent bystander tragically lost his life during a deadly incident at a Bronx bodega when a gunman attempted to rob another individual. Stefon Barnes, 29, was fatally shot in the right thigh by the armed robber while inside the Gourmet Deli on East Tremont Avenue on Easter Sunday. The altercation arose when the thief brandished his weapon in an attempt to rob a different customer, leading to Barnes being caught in the crossfire.
Barnes was rushed to St. Barnabas Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after the shooting. Surveillance footage obtained by WABC revealed that Barnes was simply browsing chips in the store and was not involved in the confrontation before being shot. Witnesses described Barnes as an innocent bystander who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Antonio Sanchez, a customer who was inside the bodega just minutes before the shooting, recounted hearing the gunfire and initially mistaking it for firecrackers due to the common occurrence in the area. Sanchez expressed his shock and sorrow over the tragic event, emphasizing the senseless loss of life that occurred that day.
Following the incident, a makeshift memorial was set up outside the deli, with mourners leaving bouquets of flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages in honor of Barnes. The community was deeply affected by the tragedy, with messages expressing grief and remembrance for the victim.
The NYPD released a photo of the suspected shooter, described as a man wearing a black jacket over a black hoodie, black sweatpants, and sneakers. Authorities are actively seeking information to apprehend the individual responsible for the fatal shooting, as the investigation into the incident continues.
The untimely death of Stefon Barnes serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that innocent bystanders can face in unpredictable and violent situations. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved member, efforts are underway to bring justice for Barnes and ensure the safety of all residents in the neighborhood.
