NYC Crime: Liquor Store Owner Shot a Robber Who Was Threatening Him and Was Arrested!

QUEENS, NY – Francisco Valerio, proprietor of Franja Wines and Liquors in Ridgewood, Queens, finds himself entangled in legal proceedings after an incident at his establishment. The events unfolded on a seemingly routine evening, where two individuals, Kevin Pullutasi and Edwin Poaquiza, aged 20, entered the premises around 7:45 p.m. on Monday.

Valerio, accompanied by his brother, took immediate action upon noticing the unauthorized presence of the aforementioned individuals to uphold the sanctity of his business. After a verbal exchange, captured on surveillance footage, the duo was compelled to exit the establishment. However, the situation quickly escalated as Pullutasi, displaying a brazen disregard for the law, instigated a physical confrontation upon their exit.

In the ensuing melee, Valerio, acting in what he believed to be self-defense, retrieved his legally owned firearm. Regrettably, in the chaos of the moment, the firearm discharged, resulting in Pullutasi sustaining a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Valerio promptly contacted emergency services and cooperated fully with law enforcement upon their arrival, relinquishing control of the firearm.

Subsequent legal proceedings have seen both Pullutasi and Poaquiza facing charges of robbery, assault, and menacing. Meanwhile, Valerio, despite possessing a concealed carry permit, now confronts a charge of reckless endangerment in connection to the incident. His release on Tuesday night without bail underscored the recognition by authorities of his cooperation and the circumstances surrounding the event.

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Community sentiment regarding the incident remains divided, with some advocating for Valerio’s innocence, citing his actions as a necessary defense of his livelihood, while others express concern over the escalation of violence in the area. Nevertheless, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between self-defense, legal responsibilities, and the ever-present threat of crime in urban environments.