Photo: ANGELA WEISS / AFP / Getty Images
A tragic incident unfolded at a Morton Williams grocery store in Manhattan, New York, where an employee, Leobardo Hernandez, died after confronting a shoplifter. The 64-year-old Hernandez, who worked at the store near Columbus Circle, was reportedly punched in the chest by the suspect last Friday night. After the confrontation, Hernandez collapsed and was later pronounced dead at Mount Sinai West Hospital. His children, including three sons and a daughter, remember him as a kind-hearted and supportive family man. "He was always happy. I've never seen him upset ever," said his son Harold.
An autopsy revealed that Hernandez had a slightly enlarged heart and prior heart issues. Police are investigating whether the stress from the incident contributed to his death. The shoplifter fled the scene and remains at large. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of homicide charges if they apprehend the suspect.
Morton Williams expressed their condolences, stating, "We are heartbroken by the loss of Leobardo Hernandez, our beloved colleague and a treasured member of our Morton Williams family." Hernandez's family has set up a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses.
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