Bronx Deli Molotov Attack Leaves Worker Burned

A Bronx deli Molotov cocktail attack left a 33-year-old worker with severe burns after a masked suspect threw a flaming device into a Fordham Heights storefront Tuesday night, according to police and family members.

The fire broke out at a small shop on West 183rd Street near Jerome Avenue around 10:10 p.m., authorities said. The worker suffered severe burns to his face and body and was taken to Jacobi Medical Center, where he was listed in serious but stable condition, fire officials said. Surveillance footage obtained by The Post showed flames erupting inside the store, with at least one shadowy figure visible near the doorway. Police said the male suspect fled on foot and was still at large late Wednesday. Sources told The Post they believed he may have known the victim.

A relative who identified himself as Mizzy said he believed a group of juveniles carried out the attack. He said the suspects were dressed to conceal their identities and described the incident as a Molotov cocktail assault that quickly set the store ablaze. Mizzy said he saw the aftermath from outside the shop and watched as his cousin was brought out of the store after the flames spread. He said the victim’s skin was peeling off and that people used a blanket to help put out the fire. He also called the attack outrageous and said his cousin was well known in the neighborhood.

The blaze triggered a two-alarm response and took about an hour to bring under control, the FDNY said. The fire did not stay limited to the deli. A nearby bakery, a fashion shop and a laundromat were also affected, showing how quickly a single arson attack can damage several small businesses in one city block.