The United Bodegas of America (UBA) has launched a $5,000 reward for information that helps capture the Hispanics who robbed the Dominican bodega owner in The Bronx. The violent robbery took place at the El Sitio Deli Grocery bodega, located at 892 Home Street, where armed thieves made off with thousands in cash and jewelry.
This year, several members of the UBA, which represents more than 15,000 merchants, have suffered similar robberies. Radhames Rodríguez, president of the association, condemned the attack: the criminals broke in at gunpoint, demanding money while pointing directly at the employees. The Dominican Jeffrey Brito was subdued by one of the attackers, who spoke fluent Spanish, just like him. He lost a chain, an earring, $400 in cash, and another $1,400 in jewelry.
Details of the robbery of the Dominican bodega owner
The Hispanics then forced the owner, Miguel Arias, to open the cash register, stealing nearly $3,700. Arias recounted the terror caused by the nervous behavior of the gunman. “This is unacceptable, our workers are terrified while earning an honest living. We demand swift action,” Rodríguez declared. The staff’s caution prevented a greater tragedy, according to the UBA.
Context of insecurity in The Bronx for Dominicans
The Bronx has seen a rise in robberies at Hispanic bodegas, with NYPD data showing more than 200 violent incidents in neighborhood businesses in 2025, many by Latino suspects. This $5,000 reward, equivalent to about 300,000 Dominican pesos, aims to encourage tips. Rodríguez emphasized: “We will continue to fight so that no bodega owner faces this terror.”
Impact on the Dominican diaspora
- Employees like Brito risked their lives on the night shift.
- Arias fears for his family business, which is vital to the community.
- UBA expresses solidarity and pushes for reinforced patrols.
This case highlights the vulnerabilities of Dominican immigrants in New York, where bodegas are economic pillars but easy targets. Police are investigating leads, prioritizing the capture.
“Someone could have died that night. We need real consequences,” Rodríguez noted regarding the robbery.
The $5,000 reward for the Hispanics who robbed the Dominican bodega owner in The Bronx underscores the urgency for justice. Communities are hoping for quick results to restore safety in their neighborhoods.