SYRACUSE, N.Y. A lunchtime stabbing at Brooklyn Pickle sent emergency crews rushing to the 1600 block of West Genesee Street on Thursday, leaving one man seriously injured and prompting a citywide police response—on what was meant to be a celebratory day for the iconic Syracuse deli.
According to emergency radio traffic and CAD dispatch records, the incident occurred shortly after 12:00 PM inside the busy restaurant, where Brooklyn Pickle was hosting its 50th Anniversary Celebration featuring $5 sandwiches, 50¢ deals, and commemorative T-shirts for in-store purchases.
Altercation Sparked by Photo
Witnesses and initial reports indicate that the stabbing was triggered by a dispute after the victim took a photo of the line inside the restaurant. The suspect reportedly became upset over the photo being taken and confronted the man. The confrontation escalated quickly and ended with the victim being stabbed in the head.
Emergency Response
Syracuse Police and AMR Ambulance were dispatched within minutes of a 911 call reporting the stabbing. Responders arrived to find the victim suffering from significant stab wounds. Bystanders had attempted to provide first aid while awaiting emergency services.
AMR medics staged briefly until Syracuse officers secured the scene, then entered to begin treatment. The victim, whose identity has not been released, was quickly transported to Upstate University Hospital. His current condition has not yet been made public.
Suspect on the Run
The assailant, described as a male in dark clothing—including a black hoodie and jeans—fled the restaurant reported driving a blue Acura, police connected it's license plate to an address in the City of Syracuse.. Police officers canvassed surrounding blocks and began reviewing area surveillance footage. As of Thursday afternoon, no arrest had been made and the suspect remained at large.
Scene Disruption and Investigation
The incident caused a brief shutdown of restaurant operations and drew a significant police presence to the area. Officers requested the Syracuse Police Department’s Crime Scene Unit to collect evidence and conduct interviews with witnesses. SPD has not yet confirmed whether the attack was targeted or random, and the motive—while partially known—remains under investigation.
CNY Community News will provide updates as more details become available.