In a shocking incident in Harlem, New York City, Jaia Cruz, a 24-year-old transgender individual, has been charged with murder for allegedly stabbing a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier, Ray Hodge III, during a dispute while both were waiting in line at a deli.
The attack, which occurred in broad daylight, resulted in Hodge suffering multiple stab wounds to his torso, neck, and arms. Despite being rushed to Harlem Hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
The victim, Hodge, was a 36-year-old postal worker and father of two, known for his kindness and dedication to his job. Cruz, identified as Alvin in some reports, had a history of knife violence and previous encounters with law enforcement, including a prior mugging. Eyewitnesses claim the confrontation started over their places in line, escalating quickly into violence.
The incident has left the community of Harlem shaken, as postal workers across NYC mourn the loss of one of their own. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, in collaboration with the NYPD, is actively investigating the case, calling on anyone with more information to come forward.
This tragic event comes amid rising concerns over violence targeting postal workers, highlighting the urgent need for greater safety measures for those delivering essential services every day.
