Reda Girgis, 66, traveled from Egypt to New York to be with his son and daughter-in-law ahead of the birth of his grandchild. On the evening of May 23, 2023, he was outside Chop Cheese Deli 2 at Broadway and West 162nd Street in Washington Heights, reportedly trying to connect to the deli’s WiFi to call his son, when a car drove by and shots were fired toward a group of young men believed to be the intended targets. A stray bullet struck Girgis in the head; he was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.

The New York City Police Department investigated and on June 7, 2023 arrested three people identified as Jonadel Lakard, 23, Kelwin Sanchez, 19, and Raheam Steed, 22. Prosecutors later indicted the three on murder in the second degree and criminal possession of a weapon, alleging the shooting was retaliatory and that Girgis was an unintended victim. The loss of a grandfather-to-be during what should have been a joyful visit remains central to the case.

Did anyone see or have information about the shooting near Broadway and West 162nd Street that evening?