Gunman steals $20K from NYC landlord, 99, in broad daylight: cops
A daring gunman in a ski mask pulled off a brazen heist, robbing a 99-year-old Manhattan landlord of over $20,000 in a daylight robbery this week. The thief, who seemed to have been monitoring the elderly landlord’s movements, called him around 10 a.m. on Monday claiming to have a package for delivery to an apartment within the building on West 187th Street near Audubon Avenue in Washington Heights.
The caller requested that the elderly man meet him at the side entrance of the building, a suspicious request as it indicated familiarity with the building layout. When the victim went to open the gate, the intruder pushed his way past, leading to a struggle that resulted in the elderly man injuring his hand and needing stitches.
The suspect then forced his way into the basement of the building, pressing a gun against the victim’s back and demanding access to the office. It was clear that the criminal had knowledge of the landlord’s daily routine, as he knew the location of the office and where the money was kept. The thief made off with at least $20,000 in rent money, including payments from tenants in two other buildings owned by the elderly man across the street.
The 99-year-old victim, who was in charge of collecting rent for multiple properties, was hospitalized with two broken fingers as a result of the altercation. The suspect, who only spoke Spanish, managed to evade capture and was last seen wearing a black ski mask, black gloves, a gray sweatshirt, black sweatpants, and white sneakers.
Authorities have urged anyone with information on the whereabouts of the robber to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline. The public can call 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers. Tips can also be submitted online through the Crime Stoppers website. The hunt for the daring criminal continues as the elderly landlord recovers from his injuries.
