Sunnyside Incident: Vendor Stabbed Over Dispute, Attacker Faces Serious Charges

Person in handcuffs, hands behind their back.

A heated dispute in Sunnyside, Queens, escalated when a fruit vendor was stabbed multiple times, leaving the community shocked and the attacker behind bars.

At a Glance

A New York City fruit vendor was stabbed multiple times in Queens.
The suspect, Niser Cekic, has a history of 23 arrests.
The incident occurred near a fruit stand on Roosevelt Avenue.
The victim is in stable condition at a local hospital.

Incident in Sunnyside, Queens

A dispute turned violent on the bustling streets of Sunnyside, Queens when Niser Cekic, 47, stabbed a local fruit vendor. Located near a stand on Roosevelt Avenue, the altercation occurred just before 6 p.m. Cekic assaulted the 35-year-old vendor over sleeping arrangements near the vendor’s stand, leading to multiple stab wounds. The authorities apprehended Cekic swiftly, recovering the knife used in the attack.

Cekic, who resides nearby, was arrested while waiting for an MTA bus, a short distance from the crime scene. Law enforcement officials confirmed his arrest, marking yet another entry into his lengthy criminal record. Cekic has faced charges before, including petit larceny and trespassing. Although this incident shocked the local community, the victim remains in stable condition at a nearby hospital.

Screwball with 23 prior arrests stabs NYC vendor who asked him not to sleep near fruit stand: cops https://t.co/jMgc9ctzGh pic.twitter.com/fmZNrTxFOs

— New York Post (@nypost) November 4, 2024

The Legal Aftermath

In the wake of the attack, Cekic faces serious legal repercussions. He has been formally charged with attempted murder, assault with a weapon, and other related offenses. Investigators continue to piece together the circumstances leading up to the violent outburst. The arraignment for these new charges was pending as of Monday, adding pressure on Cekic’s already precarious legal standing from his numerous prior arrests. “A 35-year-old vendor was stabbed repeatedly after getting into an argument with a 47-year-old man, police said.”

The details of Cekic’s previous infractions paint a troubling image for the accused. However, swift action by police brought some reassurance to the community. The NYPD has increased its presence around the area, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining the safety of residents and local vendors.

Ongoing Investigation

While Cekic’s police record is extensive, the root of this particular conflict remains under investigation. Law enforcement officials are thoroughly reviewing available surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts to provide further clarity. The case has brought attention to public safety concerns and law enforcement’s ongoing battle with repeat offenders.

This disturbing incident not only puts a spotlight on criminal activity in urban areas but also serves as a stark reminder of the resilience of those affected. Though the vendor faces a long road to recovery, the community’s support and resolve appear steadfast.