A heartfelt remembrance for Nicola Tanzi, a 64-year-old Italian parishioner fatally attacked outside a Brooklyn subway station, took place on Friday evening. Over a hundred family members and friends gathered to celebrate his kindness, humor, and deep faith.
Tanzi, a devoted Catholic, was tragically killed on October 7 by a repeat offender while leaving his station at Jay Street Metrotech, where he had worked as a security guard for 15 years.
“He was a truly wonderful, caring human being,” said David Tanzi during the emotional wake at Andrew Torregrossa & Sons Funeral Home in Brooklyn.
“He’d do anything for anyone, and his faith was inspiring. He had a laugh that was contagious; all who met him will remember that,” he added.
Having moved to New York City years ago, Tanzi lived a quiet life in Bensonhurst without modern technology like cell phones or email. He worked as a public safety officer and volunteered at local churches.
A dedicated member of St. Dominic’s Church, he also engaged with Sacred Heart of Mary and St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church in Carroll Gardens. He is survived by five brothers.
“He was a simple man,” his brother Anthony shared, revealing that Tanzi had plans to retire and relocate to Long Island in June. “He didn’t want a phone or email; he focused on what mattered. He was looking forward to spending time in Long Island, doing the things we enjoyed as kids. It’s just tragic—he was robbed of that opportunity,” he reflected.
Prior to the wake, Tanzi was cremated, and his urn was placed at the front of the chapel, surrounded by flowers and photographs.
Richard Lavallois, who met Tanzi in middle school, struggled to hold back tears as he spoke of his friend. “Nicki was always in a good mood; he was just a good guy who never hurt anyone,” he said, expressing disbelief at the senseless violence that took Tanzi’s life.
“He was never in a bad mood. He’d go to work each day, and when something like this occurs, it just feels so unfair,” Lavallois continued.
David Mazariegos, 25, has been charged with first-degree murder in this brutal incident. Prosecutors report that he had multiple criminal cases pending and allegedly punched Tanzi, knocking him to the ground before continuing to kick him even after he lost consciousness. Tanzi eventually succumbed to his injuries, which included a fractured skull and severe facial damage.
Mazariegos reportedly lamented about the door being left open, claiming he had taken Tanzi’s “soul” due to personal grievance over how he was perceived. He remains at Rikers Island without bail.
