In a shocking and unusual case, a man allegedly stabbed two deli workers at a New Jersey bakery over a food order mistake that happened four years ago. The bizarre and violent incident has left the local community in Paterson deeply disturbed, raising serious concerns about public safety and mental health issues.
What Happened at the Bakery?
The incident took place on the morning of July 31 at Baladna Bakery in Paterson, New Jersey, around 8 a.m. According to police reports and media coverage, the suspect entered the shop and allegedly attacked the two brothers who own the bakery, Abed and Mohammad Assad.
The Reason? A Long-Standing Food Complaint
The suspect reportedly told employees he was still angry about receiving the wrong sandwich four years ago. Instead of an egg sandwich, he claimed he was given one with eggplant, which he said made him sick due to an allergy.
Witnesses said the man confronted a female worker before pulling out a box cutter and stabbing both Assad brothers.
Attempts to Calm the Situation Failed
According to a close friend of the victims, Moneer Simrin, the employees even offered the man a new hot dog and $3 as a peace gesture. But the suspect refused, insisting that he had been wronged years ago. Simrin said the man appeared to be “just looking for a problem.”
Details of the Attack
During the confrontation, Mohammad Assad was stabbed in the chest, while Abed Assad was injured in the hand and arm. Both were rushed to St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Mohammad suffered non-life-threatening injuries and remained in hospital, while Abed received treatment for cuts.
The Suspect Had Been Seen Earlier
According to reports, the man had visited the bakery a few days before the attack and had asked for the owners by name. Abed said he recognized him as a previous customer.
Community in Shock
Local authorities, including Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh, expressed deep concern over the incident. He confirmed that the attacker blamed the bakery for serving him the wrong sandwich years ago and said he claimed to have gotten sick from eating eggplant.
Mayor Sayegh reassured the public that this kind of violence is unusual for the area and that local police are focused on finding and arresting the person responsible.
Surveillance Captured the Suspect
Nearby surveillance cameras reportedly recorded the man fleeing the bakery on foot. The video is now with local police, who are investigating and working to identify and catch the suspect.
This disturbing incident reminds us that unresolved anger, if left unchecked, can turn dangerous—even deadly. A simple food mix-up from years ago escalated into a violent attack that injured two innocent business owners. Thankfully, both are recovering, and the police are working hard to ensure justice is served. Paterson residents are left shaken, but they remain hopeful that safety will be restored soon.
