Mailman Murdered In Harlem Deli Was 'Good Man,' Family Says

HARLEM, NY — A New York family is grieving and fundraising for funeral costs after Ray Hodges, a mail carrier, was stabbed to death in a Harlem deli on Jan. 2.

"It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ray, whose life was tragically cut short on January 2nd in a senseless act of violence," Hodges' family wrote on GoFundMe, as first reported by PIX11. "We are devastated by this loss."

According to the NYPD, Jaia Cruz, 24, was charged with murder in the second degree after Ray Hodges, 36, was stabbed to death inside a deli at 168 Lenox Ave. at 2:38 p.m. on Jan. 2, while he was getting a sandwich during his shift.

NYPD sources said that the attack happened after an argument between the two.

Hodges was rushed by emergency responders to NYC Health+Hospitals/Harlem, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Hodges was a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service's Morningside Station, the organization confirmed. Attacking or killing a mail carrier can be charged as a federal crime.

"Ray touched the lives of everyone he interacted with," his family wrote on GoFundMe.

"Ray was a hardworking, honorable and good man whose life epitomized his values and his willingness to help others. Ray touched the lives of so many and we all are truly blessed to have known and had the opportunity to love him."

As of Friday afternoon, the GoFundMe has received donations from 103 people totaling at $6,323 so far.

"During this incredibly difficult time, we are reaching out to family, friends and the community for support as we make preparations to provide Ray with a respectful and dignified farewell," the family wrote.

Learn more or donate here.

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