Incident Overview

In a shocking event that unfolded on Wednesday around 11:30 a.m., a 24-year-old bodega employee, Sidi Mohamed, was attacked during a dispute over candy at a store on East 116th Street and Third Avenue in East Harlem. The victim, who was just two days into his new job, was stabbed in the neck with a screwdriver by a suspect identified as 43-year-old Ari Ortiz.

Details of the Attack

According to Mohamed, the altercation began over a price discrepancy concerning candy. When he requested the proper payment from Ortiz, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, the situation escalated violently.

“He’s a crackhead,” Mohamed remarked, describing the assailant’s behavior during the confrontation.

In the chaos, Mohamed was able to call 911 before he attempted to pursue Ortiz himself. He used his jacket to create a makeshift bandage for his wound.

Immediate Response and Arrest

Law enforcement apprehended Ortiz the following day after he was recognized in the area. He is currently facing charges of attempted murder and assault, and remains in police custody.

Resilience and Return to Work

In a testament to his resilience, Mohamed has returned to his job at the bodega, demonstrating an impressive commitment to his role despite the traumatic incident he endured.