Ohio Arrest: Fugitive Accused of Murdering NY Bouncer Finally in Custody!
A fugitive wanted for the fatal stabbing of a New York City bouncer was arrested in Youngstown, Ohio, on Wednesday. The suspect, Jose Feliciano, is accused of stabbing a bouncer during an altercation at the Garden Bar and Grill in Brooklyn on February 10th.
The victim, Laurence Hopkins, 61, was working at the bar on Graham Avenue when he tried to intervene in a fight. According to reports, Hopkins was attempting to help a female coworker who found herself caught up in the middle of an argument between patrons.
Witnesses stated that Hopkins urged the group involved to calm down, reportedly saying, “Relax, chill out,” in an attempt to de-escalate the situation. Tragically, that’s when Feliciano allegedly stabbed Hopkins in the neck.
Hopkins was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, his injuries were too severe, and he passed away. The news shocked the community, and the New York Police Department immediately began an investigation to find the person responsible for the crime.
Months after the incident, in June, a warrant was officially issued for Jose Feliciano’s arrest. Law enforcement agencies believed Feliciano had fled New York soon after the stabbing. Through their investigative efforts, U.S. Marshals and local police managed to track him to a residence on Wolosyn Circle in Youngstown, Ohio.
On Wednesday afternoon, U.S. Marshals, with assistance from local authorities, arrested the 49-year-old suspect without incident. Feliciano is currently being held in custody in Ohio and is awaiting extradition back to New York, where he will face charges for the murder of Laurence Hopkins.
The U.S. Marshals Service, a federal agency responsible for capturing fugitives, was heavily involved in tracking down Feliciano. According to a statement by U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott, “Criminals will not find a place to hide in northern Ohio. Members of our task force will work with law enforcement across the country to ensure that those wanted for violent crimes are caught and held accountable for their actions.”
The Garden Bar and Grill, where the stabbing took place, has since become a somber reminder of the tragic event. The death of Laurence Hopkins has left a lasting impact on the local community, with many expressing their grief and sharing their memories of him as a kind and dedicated worker. His attempt to peacefully intervene in a dangerous situation exemplified his character, as many friends and colleagues have remarked.
The arrest of Jose Feliciano marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice for Hopkins and his family. His extradition back to New York will allow the legal process to proceed, and prosecutors will work to build their case against him.
While this arrest offers some closure, the tragic nature of the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with working in environments where violence can erupt without warning. Bouncers and other security personnel often face difficult and unpredictable situations while simply trying to ensure the safety of others.
As the case unfolds in court, many will be watching closely to see what justice will be served for the family of Laurence Hopkins. His life, cut short by a senseless act of violence, will be remembered by those who knew and loved him. And with Feliciano now in custody, the wheels of justice are finally turning.