Helmet-wearing menaces who allegedly shot, stole $22K Rolex from NYC cellphone store worker charged with attempted murder

A Violent Robbery in Queens: Two Men Charged with Attempted Murder

In a shocking incident that shook the quiet neighborhood of Astoria, Queens, two men were charged with attempted murder for their alleged involvement in a violent robbery at a local cellphone store. The incident occurred on November 8, 2023, when a cellphone store worker was shot and robbed of his expensive Rolex watch. The suspects, identified as Elier Sanchez, 23, and Danilxon Alvarez, 34, were apprehended separately over the past three weeks and now face serious charges, including first-degree robbery and weapons possession.

The Suspects: Migrants from Venezuela

Both Sanchez and Alvarez are believed to be migrants from Venezuela, a fact that has drawn attention to the broader issue of migration and crime in the city. While their immigration status does not define their alleged actions, it does highlight the challenges faced by migrants in integrating into society. Sanchez, the younger of the two suspects, was first arrested on January 3, 2024, for shoplifting. During his time in custody, police connected him to the November robbery through evidence. Alvarez, on the other hand, was arrested on January 29, 2024, by U.S. Marshals in New Jersey after he barricaded himself in a building. Both men have pleaded not guilty to the charges and are being held without bail.

The Crime: A Brutal Attack at a Cellphone Store

The robbery occurred at the Top in Town Wireless store on Steinway Street near 34th Avenue in Astoria. The victim, a 40-year-old man, was working at the store when the two suspects entered around 6:50 p.m. The incident quickly escalated into a physical altercation, during which one of the suspects fired multiple rounds at the victim, striking him in both legs and the torso. The suspects then grabbed the victim’s $22,000 Rolex watch and fled the scene on a scooter. The victim was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital Center, where he was listed in stable condition, a testament to the quick response of emergency services.

The Investigation: How Police Traced the Suspects

The New York Police Department (NYPD) released footage of the suspects the day after the attack, showing one man wearing a gray helmet with a black jacket and blue jeans, and the other wearing a black helmet, a red mask, and a blue hooded sweatshirt with red and black sneakers. This footage, along with other evidence, helped police identify and track down the suspects. Sanchez was already in custody for shoplifting when police connected him to the robbery. Alvarez, who tried to evade capture by barricading himself, was eventually apprehended by U.S. Marshals. The successful investigation highlights the effectiveness of law enforcement in solving violent crimes, even when suspects attempt to hide or flee.

The Legal Fallout: Charges and Court Proceedings

Both suspects have been charged with attempted murder, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. These charges carry significant penalties, with attempted murder alone punishable by up to 25 years in prison. During their arraignments, both men pleaded not guilty, a common legal strategy to allow their defense teams to prepare for trial. They were denied bail, a decision that reflects the seriousness of the charges and the potential danger the suspects pose to the community. As the case progresses, prosecutors will need to present a strong case to secure convictions, while the defense will likely seek to undermine the evidence or raise doubts about their clients’ involvement.

Reflections on the Case: Implications and Broader Context

This case raises several important questions about crime, migration, and public safety in New York City. While it is crucial to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions, it is equally important to recognize that crime is often linked to broader societal issues, such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and systemic inequalities. The fact that both suspects are believed to be migrants from Venezuela adds a layer of complexity to the story, as it highlights the challenges faced by newcomers trying to make a life for themselves in a new country. However, it is also a reminder that crime affects everyone, regardless of background, and that vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement are key to keeping communities safe. As this case unfolds in court, it will serve as a reminder of the need for justice, compassion, and understanding in addressing the root causes of crime.