South Asian immigrant in Atlantic City dies after after being robbed by armed youths

quote:

---

Andy Ngô
@MrAndyNgo
A South Asian immigrant who ran a souvenir shop on the Atlantic City boardwalk died after being robbed by an armed group of black youths. His family is calling for more security in the area following increasing instances of youths stealing merchandise.

---

quote:

---

Asif Ansari said his father noticed theft had become an issue on the promenade, with kids and teenagers running into stores to snatch clothes, sunglasses and souvenirs. He talked about wanting more security on the boardwalk, Asif said. His store was between Kentucky and New York avenues.

Around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Asif said his father returned to the shop after working a shift that morning to bring food to his son, who was working that night. Five minutes later, a group of young teens and preteens tried stealing items. When confronted, they started harassing and throwing items at his dad.

During the altercation, a 12-year-old boy brandished a knife and threatened Mehmood, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner said in a statement. Shortly after police arrived, the owner “collapsed and was not breathing,” the prosecutor said. He was taken to the hospital, where he died.

“This is like our home and it’s not safe,” Asif Ansari said. He said the incident was caught on surveillance video.

The two juveniles have not been charged in Mehmood Ansari’s death.

---