New Jersey Man Stabs Bakery Owner Over Eggplant Sandwich Dispute

A confrontation at a bakery in Patterson, New Jersey, escalated into violence last week when a customer, upset over a past allergic reaction, returned to stab the store’s owner. The incident occurred on March 14, 2024, at The Baladna Bakery, where the suspect attacked both Abed and Mohammad Assad.

According to reports from ABC 7, the assailant entered the bakery carrying a knife and expressed his anger over being served a sandwich containing eggplant four years earlier. He claimed the dish had caused him significant discomfort due to his allergy. Moneer Simrin, a friend of the victims, recounted the assailant’s words: “He told him, ‘You give me eggplant in my sandwich and then my stomach was bothering me.'”

The situation rapidly devolved into violence when Mohammad Assad was stabbed in the stomach. Abed intervened to assist his brother and was subsequently slashed in the arm. Witnesses described hearing screams prior to witnessing Abed bleeding from his injury. One witness noted, “I heard screaming, so I went outside to see one of the bakery owners outside holding his arm. His arm was bleeding. It surprised everybody because they’re very nice people.”

Both brothers suffered serious injuries and were transported to Saint Joseph’s University Hospital for treatment. As of March 17, 2024, Mohammad remained hospitalized, while Abed had been released.

Patterson Mayor André Sayegh visited the business district following the attack to address community concerns. “They’re concerned. This type of thing does not happen in that area, so I tried to assuage some of the fears, allay their concerns and reassure them that the police department is completely focused on bringing whomever is responsible for this tragic violent incident to justice,” Sayegh stated.

The suspect was last seen fleeing the scene on Main Street, but police have not yet released a detailed description. In light of the incident, The Baladna Bakery has closed its doors indefinitely as the investigation continues.

This violent encounter has raised alarms among local residents and business owners, prompting officials to reinforce their commitment to safety and security in the area. Further updates are expected as law enforcement continues their search for the assailant.