A tragic incident unfolded in a Harlem deli, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old postal worker, Ray Hodges. Hodges was fatally stabbed during an altercation, and authorities have apprehended a suspect identified as Jaia Cruz. The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) confirmed Hodges' identity as the victim.

The New York Post has brought to light Cruz's concerning history of violence involving knives, citing five prior arrests. One incident from July 2020 involved Cruz brandishing an open box cutter and threatening an individual in Midtown Manhattan. Just two weeks after this event, Cruz was again taken into custody in connection with a robbery, allegedly using knives to steal a man's wallet and phone after being invited to socialize with the victim.

During the initial arrest involving the box cutter, Cruz reportedly resisted police orders and was subsequently arrested for resisting arrest.

The USPIS has released a statement emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of postal service employees and their collaboration with the NYPD in this ongoing investigation.