One more gun is off the street tonight and it’s thanks to the bravery of a quick thinking fruit vendor. 30 year old Israel Ortiz was held up at gunpoint yesterday in his fruit shop on Faber’s Road but instead of giving in, he fought back. He told us about yesterday’s frightening few minutes.
Israel Ortiz, Victim of Attempted Robbery
“The little boy like 17 come to my shop and hauled out the gun and put it on my belly and told me to give me the money, give me all the money. I told the man I don’t have no money but the man put the gun on this side and I hold the gun, I hold the gun and I fight with him but my hand didn’t hold the gun good but the neighbours came out and the man run.”
Keith Swift,
“He ran left his gun?”
Israel Ortiz,
“Yes he ran without his gun.”
Keith Swift,
“Why did you decide to fight back?”
Israel Ortiz,
“Because all I bad was $50. He said he wanted all the money and I told him I only have $50 but still he said to go back, go with him back there.”
Keith Swift,
“How long have you had your shop?”
Israel Ortiz,
“Three years.”
Keith Swift,
“Has this ever happened before?”
Israel Ortiz,
“It is the first time.”
Keith Swift,
“Was the guy hiding his face?”
Israel Ortiz,
“No, he didn’t have nothing on his face.”
Keith Swift,
“Have you seen him before?”
Israel Ortiz,
“Yes all the time he comes to buy here and that is why I was not afraid of he. I was asking he what he wants and he only asked me for the money.”
And you heard correctly, the robber ran and left his gun behind - which police found on the scene. It is a Smith and Wesson brand.32 revolver. Police have also arrested the accused robber. He is a 17 year old resident from the area who was today charged with attempted robbery and keeping firearm and ammunition without a gun license. He pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery charge. Sentencing was deferred until after his trial for the firearm and ammunition charges. He was remanded to the Youth Hostel until January 18th 2010.
The minor was charged along with Calvin Palma. He wasn’t on the scene but was along with the minor when he was arrested. Palma’s arraignment was delayed because he fell suddenly ill at the Queen Street Police Station and is hospitalised tonight.
