Large Reward Offered for Suspect Wanted for Two Murders in New York

The New York Police Department is searching for 31‑year‑old Jesus Acosta, whom officials say is linked to two deadly armed attacks that occurred over several days in Brooklyn and the Bronx. Authorities have launched a wide‑scale manhunt to apprehend the suspect, described as armed and dangerous.

Bronx Deli Attack

According to the police statement, Acosta entered the 149 Grill and Deli in the Bronx on Tuesday. Footage from security cameras shows the suspect firing at 33‑year‑old Tavon Shuler inside, then taking the victim's backpack and collecting the money from the register. Shuler was taken to hospital but later died.

Employees Stuck Between Bullets

During the attack, employees inside the shop tried to protect themselves when gunfire erupted. Footage shows some bullets striking walls only a few centimeters from the employees' position. Police determined that Acosta fled the scene after the assault.

Also Wanted for the Brooklyn Attack

Acosta's name was also linked to another armed attack that occurred in Brooklyn's Brownsville area two days before the incident in the Bronx. Police said that 44‑year‑old MD Yousef was shot in the head and killed at the restaurant named American Best Wings and Pizza, and that a 39‑year‑old employee was shot in the leg. The injured employee was reported to have survived.

The victim was a father of two children.

The wife of MD Yousef, who is said to have come to the United States from Bangladesh a few years ago, was reported to have provided financial support to his two children, his parents, and other family members. One of the restaurant's partners, Shekh Rasel, described Yousef as a reliable employee and a member of the family. Yousef's funeral was scheduled for Thursday.

Acosta was released in April.

According to police records, Acosta had been on conditional release since April. It was noted that the suspect had previously served more than ten years in prison for assault and weapons possession offenses. Officials emphasized that Acosta's presence is of importance to public safety because of his past.

FBI $25,000 Reward

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced a $25,000 reward for information that would lead to the capture and conviction of Acosta. Combined with the $10,000 reward previously offered by United Bodegas of America, the total reward amount reached $35,000.

Police Shares Suspect's Profile

The NYPD reported that Acosta is about 1.80 meters tall and weighs 79 kilograms. It was announced that the suspect, described as having short brown hair and brown eyes, has a 'Bronx' tattoo on his hand and a 'Bobby' tattoo on his left forearm.

Authorities Seek Public Assistance

Police asked anyone who knows Acosta's whereabouts to provide information. Tips can be submitted via the NYPD Crime Stoppers line at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish-language tips can be made to 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Authorities said that the information provided would remain confidential.

Searches Continue in New York

According to officials' statements, Acosta is still wanted. While the police continue the investigation of the attacks that occurred in two different districts, they are evaluating information from the public to determine the suspect's whereabouts.