Supermarket Worker Dies After Confrontation with Shoplifter

Officials and sources report that a 64-year-old supermarket employee in Manhattan lost his life following a brawl with a shoplifter trying to steal a six-pack of Heineken last week.

The worker, identified by his family as Leovaldo Hernandez, a father of four, encountered the individual attempting to swipe some beer around 9:15 PM on Friday at Morton Williams, located on 9th Avenue near Columbus Circle, according to police.

A “physical altercation” unfolded as Hernandez confronted the alleged thief, officers stated.

Hernandez was later found injured, having been punched in the chest, and was discovered lying on a milk crate inside the store, his sons told a news outlet.

He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries, as confirmed by authorities. The precise timing of his death remains unclear.

The specific cause of death and whether foul play is suspected had not been determined as of Monday.

“We have a lot of questions too. What’s the real story? That’s what we want to know,” said his son, Harold Hernandez. “We’re hearing different accounts and trying to piece it all together.”

An autopsy revealed that Hernandez had an enlarged heart, plaque buildup, and other health issues. Investigators are now looking into whether the stress of the incident contributed to his passing.

The city’s medical examiner’s office did not respond quickly to inquiries.

Hernandez leaves behind three sons and a daughter, with relatives sharing that his work at the supermarket helped him support his family.

Harold remembered his father as a “family man” who was always “very supportive” and “happy.”

“He was just so kind, and people loved him,” his son Henry added.

Meanwhile, the shoplifter managed to abandon the beer and flee the scene empty-handed, sources suggest.

Hernandez’s family has initiated a fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses and costs for transporting his body back to his hometown in Mexico.

In a statement, Morton Williams expressed their sorrow, saying, “We are heartbroken by the loss of our beloved colleague and precious member of the Morton Williams family, Leovaldo Hernandez. He has been a dedicated team member for over a decade, and our thoughts are with Leo’s family and friends during this tough time.”