Restaurant Sommelier Killed in Shooting
Manhattan Deli Shooting Leaves 46-Year-Old Sommelier Dead, 3 Teens Charged
A sommelier at an upscale New York City restaurant run by a world-renowned chef was shot and killed outside a Manhattan deli, according to police. The 46-year-old victim, Vernard Floranda, was shot in the chest and later died at a hospital.
The Shooting
The incident occurred on October 2 at around midnight at the corner of West 160th Street and Amsterdam Avenue in Washington Heights. According to police, Floranda was just a block away from his home when he was shot. The shooting was reported to have been part of a robbery; however, the motive is still unclear.
Victim’s Background
Floranda was a sommelier at Café Boulud, an Upper East Side restaurant run by famed chef Daniel Boulud. He had previously worked at the posh Gramercy Park Tavern and had also worked in Las Vegas and Hawaii. Floranda’s mother told the NY Daily News that her son had lived in the city for just two years and was "in the wrong place at the wrong time."
Second Victim
In addition to Floranda, a 25-year-old man was also shot during the incident and made his way to a nearby hospital. The man suffered a gunshot wound to his left ankle and was expected to recover.
Arrests
Two weeks after the shooting, three teenagers were arrested in connection with the case. Jeremiah Bascombe, 19, Jason Texeira, 18, and an unnamed 17-year-old were each charged with two counts of second-degree murder, assault, and weapon possession.
Conclusion
The shooting of Vernard Floranda is a tragic reminder of the senseless violence that can occur in our communities. Despite his short time in the city, he was a talented professional who was highly respected in his field. The arrests of the three teenagers charged in his murder are a step towards justice, but it is important that we also work to address the underlying issues that lead to such violence.
FAQs
Q: What was Vernard Floranda’s occupation?
A: He was a sommelier at Café Boulud, an Upper East Side restaurant.
Q: Where had he worked previously?
A: He had worked at the posh Gramercy Park Tavern and also in Las Vegas and Hawaii.
Q: Who was arrested in connection with the shooting?
A: Three teenagers, Jeremiah Bascombe, 19, Jason Texeira, 18, and an unnamed 17-year-old, were arrested and charged with various crimes.
Q: What was the motive behind the shooting?
A: The motive is still unclear, but it is believed to be part of a robbery.
