Community Tensions and Police Tactics on Roosevelt Avenue: AOC’s District Challenges

A brazen shooting at a Queens barbershop exposes ongoing crime concerns in Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s district, leaving residents and local leaders demanding increased police presence.

At a Glance

Two gunmen opened fire in a crowded barbershop on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, part of AOC’s district.
Brave barber Rafael Abreu confronted the suspects, potentially saving lives.
The incident highlights persistent crime issues in the area, with a 19% increase in crime compared to last year.
Local officials are calling for extended police presence beyond the current 90-day “Operation Restore Roosevelt” initiative.
Rep. Ocasio-Cortez’s office has not commented on the incident or related crime concerns.

Barbershop Shooting Shakes Local Community

On a bustling evening, chaos erupted at Langumas El Cache Barbershop in Corona, Queens, when two armed suspects burst in and opened fire. The incident, which occurred around 5:45 p.m., sent patrons scrambling for cover. Miraculously, no one was injured in the shooting, which is believed to be gang-related.

Surveillance footage captured the terrifying moment when the suspects, wearing hoodies, entered the shop. One barber, Rafael Abreu, demonstrated exceptional bravery by confronting the gunmen, potentially saving lives. Despite Abreu’s efforts to restrain one suspect in a white hoodie, another in a black hoodie managed to fire shots before both fled the scene.

WATCH: A worker confronted the gunmen who stormed in and began firing inside a busy barbershop in Queens, according to police and video.https://t.co/yLNZvRPnWc

— PIX11 News (@PIX11News) November 11, 2024

Hero Barber Speaks Out

In the aftermath of the shooting, Abreu recounted his harrowing experience, emphasizing the emotional toll of the incident. His quick thinking and courageous actions likely prevented a tragedy, as he attempted to protect both his customers and a potential target who had sought refuge in the shop.

Abreu’s heroism has not gone unnoticed. Local leaders, including former New York City Council member Hiram Monserrate, have praised his actions and called for enhanced safety measures in the area.

Rising Crime Concerns in AOC’s District

The barbershop shooting has reignited discussions about the persistent crime issues plaguing Roosevelt Avenue, an area notorious for illegal activities. Located within Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s congressional district, the incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced by local law enforcement and community members.

According to recent data, crime in the area has surged by 19% compared to the previous year. The 115th Precinct, which covers the location of the shooting, has reported an increase in major crimes, including shootings. These statistics have amplified calls from community leaders and residents for a more robust and sustained police presence.

“Operation Restore Roosevelt” and Beyond

In response to the escalating crime rates, New York City Mayor Eric Adams launched “Operation Restore Roosevelt,” a 90-day initiative aimed at cracking down on criminal activity along Roosevelt Avenue. However, many local leaders argue that this temporary measure is insufficient to address the deep-rooted issues facing the community.

Ramon Ramirez-Baez, founder of a local safety group, has been vocal about the need for a permanent police presence on Roosevelt Avenue. His sentiments echo those of many residents who feel that short-term solutions are inadequate in the face of ongoing criminal activities.

As the investigation into the barbershop shooting continues, with no arrests made as of Monday morning, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement and the community. Local officials have announced a seven-point plan to address crime and improve the area, but many residents remain skeptical about its potential effectiveness without a long-term commitment to increased police presence.

The office of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has not yet commented on the incident or the broader crime issues in her district, leaving many constituents wondering about their representative’s stance on this pressing local concern.