Home Invasion in Queens: Family Held at Gunpoint by Suspected Amazon Impersonators
Queens, NY—In a shocking crime that unfolded Monday morning in the Whitestone neighborhood of Queens, two home invaders allegedly disguised themselves as Amazon delivery workers before violently assaulting a family of five. The brazen robbery, which targeted a home on 12th Avenue near 152nd Street, has rattled the local community and raised concerns about safety in the area.
Details of the Incident
According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the home invasion occurred around 7:40 a.m. when a 43-year-old man opened the door to the suspects—one wielding a firearm. The culprits, one carrying an Amazon box and the other wearing a bright-yellow vest, quickly forced their way inside.
In a horrific turn of events, the suspects confined the family—including two women, aged 39 and 18, and two boys, aged 5 and 10—into the basement. They bound the victims with duct tape, placing tape over their mouths to silence them during the robbery.
The Aftermath of the Heist
The intruders made off with an estimated $16,000 in cash, along with jewelry and electronic devices before escaping in the family’s silver Chrysler minivan. The getaway vehicle was later found abandoned just two blocks away from the crime scene.
Witnesses recounted the harrowing scene shortly after the incident. John Nardone, who was in the vicinity, described seeing the terrified father exit the home, struggling to remove duct tape from his face. “He said his kids were in the basement,” Nardone recounted. “I was shocked; I’ve never witnessed anything like this before.”
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, the NYPD is actively seeking information on the whereabouts of the suspects. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to reach out to the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit tips online at the Crime Stoppers website.
Community Shocked
This violent incident has left residents in the normally quiet neighborhood feeling unsettled. Local officials emphasize the importance of vigilance and encourage citizens to report any suspicious activity. As the search for the culprits continues, community members are left grappling with the reality of such brazen crime occurring in their neighborhood.
Further updates will be provided as new information emerges.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.