Gary Worthy Obituary, Death; – A violent series of robberies in Queens culminated in a fatal encounter on Tuesday evening, resulting in an NYPD officer being injured, a suspect deceased, and a bystander hurt, according to police reports.
The suspect, identified as 57-year-old Gary Worthy from Queens, had a criminal history comprising 17 prior arrests, including charges of murder, robbery, burglary, and possession of narcotics. His most recent arrest occurred six days prior for felony narcotics possession and resisting arrest, after which he was released.
Worthy was also sought in connection with three additional armed robberies that took place on Halloween and November 15, during which gunfire was reported. Authorities noted that Worthy was on “lifetime parole” for firearm possession at the time of these incidents.
Patrol officers responded to a 911 call around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday regarding a robbery at a bodega in Jamaica. Upon arrival, witnesses informed the officers that a man had entered the store, announced a robbery, and threatened both customers and employees with a black revolver. During the incident, a single shot was discharged before the suspect fled southward.
“We have witnessed in two days a criminal justice system that is failing New Yorkers and the good people of this city,” stated NYC Mayor Eric Adams. Approximately an hour later, officers were alerted by a witness who indicated the suspect’s location near Jamaica Avenue and 160th Street, claiming he had just robbed a nearby smoke shop.
When two officers approached the suspect and instructed him to stop, he refused to comply and fled east on Jamaica Avenue while brandishing a firearm. Officers reportedly commanded him to drop the weapon, which he did not do. According to police, the suspect then fired a shot, hitting one of the officers in the thigh. The officer returned fire, striking the suspect in the face.
The suspect was transported to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The injured officer, identified as 36-year-old Rich Wong, was taken to Jamaica Hospital and is expected to be released on Wednesday morning. He has served on the force for seven years.
“We are angry that a violent…
