A failed robbery attempt turned violent in Brooklyn on Monday when a bungling thief opened fire inside a post office, leaving customers and employees terrified. The incident occurred at the USPS’ Midwood branch on Coney Island Avenue near Avenue I around 1:15 p.m.
The gunman entered the post office demanding cash from the tellers and proceeded to push his firearm against the back of a 37-year-old female customer. Witnesses reported that he may have also placed the woman in a headlock, causing her to scream loudly during the ordeal. However, the quick-thinking tellers ran off, leaving the would-be robber empty-handed. In a fit of frustration, the gunman fired shots at the door before finally fleeing the scene.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Authorities are now investigating whether the same suspect was involved in another attempted robbery at a Pay-O-Matic on Utica Avenue near Glenwood Road in East Flatbush just 20 minutes later. The suspect reportedly crashed his moped near the scene and was taken into custody. Charges are pending against him, and his identity has not been released.
Republican Mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa condemned the violence, emphasizing the importance of safety in all areas of the city. He criticized Mayor Eric Adams’ administration for tolerating lawlessness and vowed to restore order and protect every New Yorker in every neighborhood if elected.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe environment for both customers and employees in public spaces. It also highlights the need for swift action to address crime and ensure the well-being of residents in the city.
