In an incident that has left the Harlem community and the United States Postal Service in shock, 36-year-old Ray Hodges, an on-duty USPS letter carrier, was brutally stabbed to death inside a local deli on January 2, 2025. The altercation, which took place at 168 Lenox Avenue, escalated from a verbal dispute over who was first in line for their order.
Ray Hodges, described by those who knew him as an "honorable" and "respectful" family man, was a father of two and had been working for the USPS since 2022. According to multiple reports, Hodges was at the deli to order a sandwich when he encountered Jaia Cruz, 24, leading to a heated argument. Witnesses recount that the situation rapidly deteriorated; Cruz allegedly spat in Hodges' face before drawing a knife and stabbing him multiple times in the stomach, torso, arms, back, and neck.
Emergency services rushed Hodges to Harlem Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The news of his death has sent ripples of grief through his family, friends, and colleagues, who have set up a makeshift memorial outside his home in the Bronx, adorned with candles and Hodges' USPS visor.
Jaia Cruz was apprehended shortly after the incident and has been charged with second-degree murder. Reports indicate that Cruz has a history of violent behavior involving knives, which has raised concerns about the predictability and prevention of such violent acts in public spaces.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, in a statement, confirmed the tragic loss of one of their own, emphasizing that, "The Postal Inspection Service takes matters involving the safety and wellbeing of postal service employees as a top priority. We are working diligently with the New York City Police Department on this investigation."
This incident has not only sparked a conversation about public safety in New York City but has also highlighted the vulnerability of service workers who are part of the community's daily fabric. The Harlem neighborhood, typically known for its close-knit community, is now grappling with the repercussions of this senseless act of violence.
Friends and neighbors of Hodges have come together to mourn his loss, reminiscing about his character and the joy he brought to his family and friends. "He was always a working man, trying to provide for his kids and his family," said Flip Morales, a longtime friend of Hodges. "It's just messed up that the family gotta go through this."
As the investigation continues, the community, along with Hodges' loved ones, awaits justice, hoping that this tragedy will lead to increased measures to ensure the safety of those who serve the public in such vital roles. The memory of Ray Hodges, a man known for his dedication to his family and service to his community, will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of many.
References:
Various news articles and social media posts on the incident provide the basis for this report.
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