Statement by Representative Adriano Espaillat on District Bodega Tragedy

NEW YORK, NY – Today, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) issued the following statement following the arrest and release of Washington Heights resident, 61-year-old Jose Alba:

"It remains critical that investigations are evaluated quickly once violence occurs in our communities. It is also important that the public is informed accurately and as urgently as possible," said Rep. Espaillat. "Recently, we witnessed a grave altercation at the Blue Moon Convenience Store in Hamilton Heights on Broadway, near 139th Street, involving Jose Alba and Austin Simon, which resulted in Mr. Simon's death and Mr. Alba's arrest.

“According to video footage and legal experts, Mr. Alba was defending himself. The entire situation highlights the need for every level of government to address the escalating crime in the city of New York. It also highlights the need to continue to protect essential workers who were on the frontline of the global pandemic that we are all still navigating.

“I stand with the community in condemning all forms of violence and have asked the District Attorney to review the charges after evaluating the film footage, forensics, and eyewitness evidence.

“It remains imperative that we invest more money in crime prevention strategies at all levels within our communities and work with families and youth in some of our most vulnerable neighborhoods to ensure these much needed resources. We need a whole-of-government approach to address crime and guarantee that justice is carried out impartially in every case. I have spoken with Mayor Adams and District Attorney Bragg after gathering all of the facts associated with this case and will continue to monitor this case as it develops.”