Armed Robbery Suspect Dead After Violent Crime Spree in Queens
A violent robbery spree in Queens came to a deadly conclusion Tuesday evening, leaving a New York Police Department (NYPD) officer injured, a robbery suspect dead, and an innocent bystander struck by gunfire.
The suspect has been identified as Gary Werthy, 57, of Queens, who had a long criminal history, including arrests for murder, robbery, burglary, and narcotics possession. Authorities reported that Werthy was released on bail just six days prior after being arrested for felony narcotics possession and resisting arrest.
The incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. when officers responded to a 911 call reporting a gunpoint robbery at a bodega in the Jamaica area. Upon arrival, witnesses told police that a man had entered the store, announced a robbery, and threatened customers and staff with a black revolver. During the crime, a shot was fired before the suspect fled the scene.
At 6:24 p.m., officers searching for the suspect were flagged down by a witness near Jamaica Avenue and 160th Street, who pointed out Werthy, claiming he had just robbed a nearby smoke shop.
When officers approached the suspect shortly thereafter, Werthy fled east on Jamaica Avenue, brandishing a firearm. Despite commands to drop the weapon, Werthy did not comply and fired at the officers, striking one in the leg. The officer returned fire, hitting the suspect in the face.
Werthy was transported to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The injured officer was also taken to the hospital but is expected to recover fully.
A 26-year-old female bystander was also injured during the incident, though it is unclear who fired the shot that struck her.
Mayor Eric Adams voiced his frustration at the situation, emphasizing the failure of the criminal justice system: “We are angry that a violent, repeated offender, who has prior gun arrests, pled guilty to manslaughter, and who was arrested for seven crimes since 2001, was free to commit two robberies tonight.”
Authorities also revealed that Werthy was wanted for three additional armed robberies, including incidents on Halloween and November 15, during which shots were fired.
Werthy was reportedly on “lifetime parole” at the time of the incident.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Suspect Identified: Gary Werthy, 57, with 17 prior arrests, including for murder and robbery.
- Location of Robbery: Bodega in Jamaica, Queens.
- Injured Parties: One NYPD officer (leg injury), a 26-year-old female bystander (gunshot wound).
- Suspect’s Death: Werthy died from gunshot wounds at Jamaica Hospital.
