WOODSIDE, Queens — A violent attack that unfolded in a Woodside deli left a 65-year-old worker critically injured, according to police reports and eyewitness accounts. The incident, caught on the deli’s surveillance camera late Monday night, has raised concerns among residents about safety in their neighborhood.
The victim, identified as Abdullah Alshawish, was reportedly attacked by a man with distinctive green hair, who residents claim has been seen acting erratically around the area. Alshawish’s son, Abraham, described the assault as brutal, noting that his father sustained multiple injuries, including internal brain bleeding and a fractured face.
According to the surveillance footage, the incident began when Alshawish and the suspect bumped into each other. The situation quickly escalated after a brief exchange, with the suspect launching a relentless assault that included punching, kicking, and ultimately rendering Alshawish unconscious.
Residents of the neighborhood have expressed their unease, noting that the suspect, described as being in his 30s and around six feet tall, is a known figure in the area. “Once you mentioned the green hair, I knew exactly who you were talking about,” one resident said. “He’s definitely known around here, and not for good reasons.”
Abraham Alshawish has praised his father’s character, describing him as a genuinely nice person who is traditional in his approach to community and neighborliness. “He’s the type of person who would stop to help anyone,” Abraham said, reflecting on his father’s kindness.
The attack has left the community on edge as residents call for increased police presence and measures to ensure public safety. “It’s unsettling to think that this could happen to someone so well-liked in our community,” another local noted. “We need to feel safe in our own neighborhood.”
As of now, Abdullah Alshawish is receiving treatment at Elmhurst Hospital, where doctors are monitoring his condition and planning surgery, contingent on the stabilization of his internal bleeding. The family and community members remain hopeful yet cautious about his recovery prospects.
Law enforcement officials are actively searching for the suspect, urging anyone with information to come forward. This incident underscores the ongoing concerns regarding safety and crime in urban neighborhoods, prompting discussions about preventative strategies and community policing.
This attack not only highlights the need for vigilant community safety measures but also reflects broader societal issues involving mental health and the adequacy of resources available to address unpredictable behaviors that can lead to violence.
As the investigation continues, Woodside residents and local authorities are working together to address the sense of unease that has pervaded the community since the attack, hoping to restore a sense of security and prevent such incidents in the future.