Two Deli Workers Allegedly Stabbed by Disgruntled Customer Over 4-Year-Old Sandwich Dispute
In a shocking turn of events, two deli workers were reportedly stabbed by a customer who was dissatisfied with a sandwich they had made for him four years ago. The incident took place at Baladna Bakery in Paterson, New Jersey, with the suspect claiming he was served the wrong order that led to an allergic reaction. The attack occurred on July 31, with the suspect allegedly using a box cutter to assault the employees.
The victims of the attack were identified as brothers Abed and Mohammad Assad, who have been the longstanding owners of the bakery. According to reports, the suspect initially confronted a female employee before turning his aggression towards the two brothers. Mohammad was stabbed in the chest, while Assad sustained injuries to his hand and arm. They were promptly taken to St. Joseph’s Medical Center for medical assistance.
Prior to the violent altercation, the suspect had visited the bakery a few days earlier seeking out the owners. This visit seemingly foreshadowed the unfortunate incident that took place on July 31. The root cause of the dispute dates back four years when the customer allegedly received an eggplant sandwich instead of the egg sandwich he had ordered, triggering his reported allergy to eggplant.
Local authorities, including the Paterson Police Department, have been actively involved in investigating the matter. The Mayor of Paterson, Andre Sayegh, expressed concern over the incident, reassuring residents that efforts were being made to bring the perpetrator to justice. Surveillance footage from a nearby company captured the suspect fleeing the scene on foot, indicating a critical lead in the ongoing search for the assailant.
Friends of the victims have spoken out about the incident, with one individual recounting the futile attempts to diffuse the situation by offering compensation to the suspect. Despite efforts to placate him with money and food, the suspect escalated the confrontation, culminating in the violent attack on the Assads. The community has been shaken by the unprecedented nature of the crime, as such occurrences are deemed rare in the area.
As investigations continue, the motive behind the attack and the identity of the suspect remain focal points for law enforcement. The resilience and courage displayed by the Assad brothers in the face of adversity have garnered support and sympathy from the local community. The repercussions of the violent act have underscored the importance of conflict resolution and the need for mutual respect in interpersonal interactions.
In the aftermath of the harrowing incident, residents are urged to remain vigilant and cooperative with authorities to ensure the swift apprehension of the suspect. The resilience of the Assads and their unwavering commitment to their business serve as a testament to the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity. As the search for justice unfolds, the community stands united in condemning acts of violence and advocating for peaceful resolutions to disputes.