Robbery at East Harlem smoke shop leaves 2 injured, 1 shot

In a distressing incident that unfolded late Friday evening, a smoke shop located in the East Harlem vicinity fell prey to a robbery, resulting in two individuals sustaining injuries, including a store clerk who was shot.

The incident took place shortly past 11 p.m. within the premises of the recently inaugurated Essex Convenience smoke shop situated at 118 E. 116th Street.

According to official law enforcement sources, the unfortunate episode ensued when a pair of male suspects entered the establishment with criminal intent.

“The ordeal took a grim turn as a 34-year-old store clerk, bravely endeavoring to thwart the assailants, was shot in the groin by one of the perpetrators.

“Simultaneously, a 22-year-old patron within the store bore the brunt of the situation as he was subjected to a pistol-whipping by one of the assailants,” sources said.

Prompt emergency response was initiated, and both the wounded individuals were expeditiously transported to Harlem Hospital for immediate medical attention.

Their current medical status has been confirmed as stable, with the injuries reported as non-life-threatening.

As the investigation unfolds, crucial details regarding the monetary losses incurred during the robbery remain shrouded in uncertainty, leaving authorities to deliberate on the extent of the material damages.

Presently, law enforcement agencies are diligently working to apprehend the two male suspects implicated in the incident.

The first suspect is described as wearing a distinctive blue ski mask, while the second individual was observed donning a black hat embellished with a white logo. Authorities are urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward and aid in the swift resolution of this case.