Harlem Deli Stabbing: Postal Worker Fatally Attacked

A tragic incident unfolded in Harlem, New York City, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old U.S. Postal Service worker. Jaia Cruz, 24, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

The Incident

The stabbing occurred on Thursday afternoon inside a deli on Lenox Avenue. The victim, Ray Hodges, was reportedly stabbed in the stomach. According to reports, a dispute over a food order escalated into violence, with the suspect allegedly angered that Hodges' order was processed before hers.

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-01/250103-postal-service-stabbing-perp-walk-mn-1501-5518ad.jpg" alt="The suspect in the stabbing after her arrest in New York." >

The Arrest

Cruz was arrested later that evening and charged. A video shows her being escorted to a police vehicle, ignoring questions from the media regarding the incident. The NYPD has not yet officially commented on the motive.

U.S. Postal Inspection Service Response

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service confirmed the victim was a postal worker assigned to Manhattan and stated that they are cooperating with the NYPD in the ongoing investigation. They emphasized their commitment to the safety of postal service employees.

Unanswered Questions

The investigation is still underway, and several questions remain, including the full details surrounding the food dispute and whether Cruz has retained legal representation. Hodges' relatives have not yet commented publicly.