The FBI is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of 31-year-old Jesus Acosta, who is accused of killing two people in separate robberies in the Bronx and Brooklyn, according to police. Investigators state that Acosta shot and killed a restaurant worker in Brownsville early Sunday before targeting a bodega customer in the Bronx on Tuesday.
The Brownsville Restaurant Shooting and Md Yousof’s Death
Police said a gunman entered American Best Wings & Pizza shortly after midnight Sunday and shot worker Md Yousof in the head. The restaurant’s owner stated that the suspect also stole the week’s sales during the robbery. By Thursday, the storefront was closed with metal gates covering the entrance, while a sign outside honored Yousof’s life.
Shekh Rasel, a co-owner of the restaurant and a friend of the victim, said he was stunned by the killing. “I was shocked speechless,” Rasel said, describing Yousof as a warm, welcoming employee who built strong relationships with customers. Rasel added that Yousof was the sole provider for his family back in Bangladesh, including his wife, two daughters, and parents. To help Yousof’s family and pay to return his body to Bangladesh, the restaurant has launched a fundraising campaign.
The Bronx Bodega Robbery and Trayvon Shuler’s Killing
Authorities stated that Acosta is also responsible for a robbery and shooting at a Bronx bodega on Tuesday. According to investigators, Acosta shot customer Trayvon Shuler in the chest before emptying the cash register. Shuler ultimately died from his injuries.
These violent incidents have left residents in both Brownsville and the Bronx deeply concerned that the suspect remains at large. “I feel so frustrated and so disgusted,” one resident said regarding the manhunt. “They have advanced technology almost everywhere. They should have [caught] the guy that very day.”
Did You Know? The United Bodegas of America is offering an additional $10,000 reward on top of the FBI’s $25,000 bounty for information leading directly to Jesus Acosta’s arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total reward for information leading to Jesus Acosta’s arrest?
The FBI is offering up to $25,000, and the United Bodegas of America is offering an additional $10,000, bringing the combined reward total to $35,000.
Where did the two fatal robberies take place?
The first shooting occurred at American Best Wings & Pizza in Brownsville, Brooklyn, early Sunday, and the second incident took place at a bodega in the Bronx on Tuesday.
Who should be contacted with information regarding Acosta’s whereabouts?
Anyone with information is asked to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline.
What steps can local businesses take to protect workers following these armed robberies?